Cook-Offs
Qualifier
The BAR-B- QUE COOK OFF CONTEST is a qualifying contest for the JACK DANIELS world championship cook-off and will paid out more than $11,000 in cash prizes. Fifty teams FBA Pitmasters are excepted to compete at this year’s contest including world champions, national champions, and state champions. Considered by many to be one of best new contests in the Southeast. Many of the competitors will be selling the their ribs, chicken, pork, and beef brisket to the general public.
The CHILI FOR CHARITY CONTEST has two categories; one is for points toward the CASI national championship and the other is for over $1,000 in cash prizes. A five-dollar sampler ticket maybe purchased which entitles you to taste six different chili offerings and vote for your favorite.
Bluegrass Jamboree
Brings together musicians of the traditional American music born in the mountains of Appalachia. Our special guests this year are the Boxcars. They are this year’s recipients of the International Bluegrass Music Association Awards for the best instrumental group, the best banjo player, and the best mandolin player. Also local favorites the Florida Mountain Boys, the Skeeterland Band, and the Cry’n’ Shames will be preforming.
Family Activities
COOKING EXHIBITS – Ask questions and learn secrets from the experts concerning ingredients, preparation, and cooking technics. All sorts of different cooking equipment will be available for demonstration. A must if you considering improving your barbequing.
KID’S KORNER – Will feature free face painting, pony rides, bouncy house, games and lots of other fun activities. Hosted by the Robert Flanders Family.
CANINE CONNECTIONS – Visit with our canine friends. There will be therapy dogs from the Sheriff’s Office K-9 for Kids program, Sarasota County Search & Rescue, the Venice Police Dept. K9 unit, and Southeastern Guide Dogs. Hosted by the Donald Fisher Family.
CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT –An American Cornhole Association sanctioned contest. Sixty-four teams will compete in a double elimination format. Cash prizes will be awarded to the winners. Hosted by the Habitat for Humanity.
CHROME FOR KIDS POKER AND BIKE SHOW – Enjoy a scenic ride from Sarasota to the Venice Airport Festival Grounds. Cash prizes to the best three hands. The Bike show to feature some of the area’s best bikes. Hosted by the Cancer Support Community.
JAMIN’ AT THE PUB – Spend the afternoon with Dean Johansson and his friends. Continuous folk entertainment with delicious BAREFOOT WINES and ice cold STELLA BEER AND BASS ALE for your enjoyment.
FOLK CRAFT EXHIBITS – Brose through the exhibits of quilts, folk dancers, needlework, and basket weaving. Learn how you can become involved.
FLY IN FOR FOODIES – Fly in to Venice Municipal Airport (KVNC). The Suncoast Air Center staff will help you with any needs. Take the FREE shuttle to the event. Enjoy the day or weekend in Venice.
PLEASE REMEMBER TO VISIT OUR SOUVENIOR SHOP AND CHOOSE FROM EVENT TEE-SHIRTS, APRONS, LAPEL PINS, TERVIS TUMBLERS, AND OTHER GREAT ITEMS.