Thursday, March 28, 2024
The Hastings Cabbage, Potato, and Bacon Celebration makes a triumphant return, showcasing the best of local tradition with a twist of modern flair right in the bustling downtown of Hastings, Florida. This much-anticipated event pays homage to the town’s rich agricultural heritage, offering a blend of creativity and classic fun.
Dive into Hastings’ culinary scene through four unique food-centered happenings!
Join the culinary journey with Chef Hari Pulapaka, a renowned figure in the culinary world. As a four-time nominee for the James Beard Best Chef, co-founder of the celebrated Cress restaurant in Deland, and head of the Global Cooking School, Chef Pulapaka is recognized globally for his dedication to sustainable cooking and waste reduction, actively participating in various food sustainability initiatives.
On the morning of Saturday, April 27, at 10 a.m., Chef Pulapaka will team up with Chef Art Smith for an engaging farm-to-table cooking show and learning experience. Chef Smith, celebrated with two James Beard Foundation awards and rooted in six generations of Floridian heritage, is known for his appearances on top culinary shows and as the culinary mastermind behind six restaurants, alongside his charitable work through two foundations.
At 11 a.m., the stage will welcome Chef Michael Lugo of Viva Hospitality, a cherished figure in St. Augustine’s culinary scene. Owning three acclaimed eateries – Michael’s, Pesca Vilano, and La Nouvelle – Chef Lugo is passionate about sourcing local ingredients, showcasing his expertise in crafting dishes that honor the festival’s star ingredients.
Starting at noon, the event offers an in-depth “Farm to Diner” dialogue, giving insights into the farm-to-table process. This panel will include discussions with local farmers moderated by culinary luminaries like Lauren Titus of Edible Northeast Florida, Chef Genie, Jeff McNally of The Floridian Restaurant, and Chef Pulapaka.
The evening’s highlight, Taste of Hastings, runs from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., inviting attendees to sample a vast selection of exquisite dishes by esteemed chefs including Hari Pulapaka, Genie McNally, Michael Lugo, and others, each presenting a dish featuring the festival’s core ingredients. Tickets for this culinary showcase are priced at $35 for general access and $100 for a VIP experience.
Sunday shines with the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Sanctioned Cooking Competition at 1 p.m., where chefs dazzle with their creativity and expertise, creating masterpieces with cabbage, potatoes, and bacon to win over the judges. Tickets for this competitive spectacle are available for $20.
But there’s more than just food – the Festival is also home to the Spud Run and Cabbage Crawl Fun Run on Saturday, April 27, inviting athletes to enjoy the scenic agricultural landscapes of Hastings across various distances. Registration details can be found on the event’s website.
The spectacle continues with The Great Hastings Mow Down, featuring lawn mower races along North Main Street, divided into adult and youth classes, followed by a festive parade showcasing creatively decorated mowers.
Highlighting local culture, the Miss Potato Queen Beauty Pageant invites contestants across age groups, celebrating the community’s spirit over the weekend.
The Outdoor Artisans Market, running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both days, promises a treasure trove of local crafts, food, and entertainment, including live performances on the Bozard Stage, setting the perfect atmosphere for festival-goers.
This festival is a testament to the enduring charm of cabbage, potato, and bacon in Hastings, inviting visitors to immerse in the authentic essence of Florida’s Historic Coast. Plan your visit to this unique celebration nestled between Daytona Beach and Jacksonville, and explore the captivating mix of history, culture, and natural beauty that defines the region.
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
