The tantalizing aroma of sizzling meats and the lively clinking of cold beverages drew thousands of Indian River County residents to the 11th annual Burgers and Brews Festival: An American Heritage Celebration. Held at a spacious new venue this year, the Indian River County Fairgrounds, the beloved community event brought together local foodies for an unforgettable afternoon of culinary competition, family entertainment, and philanthropy in support of United Against Poverty.
Relocating to the Indian River County Fairgrounds provided much-needed room for the festival to expand. The outdoor pavilion offered attendees a comfortable, shaded area to sample the savory creations while providing shelter from a brief afternoon summer shower. Inside the expansive Expo Center, visitors found a cool respite from the Florida heat. The front of the building housed local nonprofit and sponsor tables, while the rear was transformed into an exclusive haven where VIP ticket holders could relax and savor their food and drinks.
The centerpiece of the festival was the fierce but friendly competition for the title of Best Burger in Vero Beach. Eleven renowned local culinary teams fired up their grills, while twelve breweries and beverage makers—including American Icon Brewery, Sailfish Brewing Company, and Hop Life Brewing Company—poured ice-cold refreshments to perfectly complement the bites.
The esteemed panel of judges tasked with crowning the champions included Chef Travis Beckett of Wild Thyme Catering, Chef Brian Mock of Wilke’s 14 Bones, and respected local restaurant critic Maribeth Renne. After carefully tasting the deliciously innovative entries, the judges and festival-goers awarded the following top honors:
- Tuohy’s Downtown: Secured the Judges’ Choice First Place Award and the coveted Best Burger title with their signature French Quarter Burger.
- Green Marlin Restaurant and Raw Bar: Won the hearts of attendees to take home the People’s Choice First Place Award, while also earning Second Place from the judges.
- Jackie’s Authentic Mexican Cuisine: Earned Third Place from the judges and Second Place in the People’s Choice voting.
- Mangrove Sands Golf Club and Restaurant: Rounded out the top tier by securing Third Place in the People’s Choice category.
Beyond the delicious fare provided by competitors like Costa d’Este Cabana Bar, Heaton’s Vero Beach, and Oak Harbor Club, the festival offered a vibrant array of American heritage activities. The East Harbor Band kept the energy high from the main stage throughout the day. Families and friends explored two rows of diverse vendors, marveling at a K-9 Demo Show and a classic Car and Jeep Show. Younger guests enjoyed a dedicated Kids Zone, while traditional pastimes like an Apple Pie Eating Contest and spirited Flip Cup Challenge Contests kept the competitive spirit alive outside the kitchen.
The 11th annual Burgers and Brews Festival successfully blended Vero Beach’s vibrant culinary scene with deep-rooted community generosity, raising vital funds to help local families achieve economic self-sufficiency.
Every burger flipped and beverage poured served a much greater purpose. All proceeds from the festival directly benefit United Against Poverty and its comprehensive, holistic programs designed to lift Indian River County families out of poverty. These vital initiatives include the Success Training Employment Program, which helps residents secure meaningful employment with livable wages, and the Member Share Grocery Program, providing essential household goods to qualified families at a fraction of the cost. Additionally, the nonprofit’s Crisis Stabilization Program delivers emergency resources, while the Build UP program equips locals with hands-on skills for high-paying careers in trades, manufacturing, and construction.
