Experience the mastery of culinary delights, tantalizing bites, live entertainment, and warm hospitality on April 27 & 28.
Get ready for the much-anticipated return of the Hastings Cabbage, Potato, and Bacon Festival, now bigger and better than ever before! Nestled in the heart of downtown Hastings, this lively event pays homage to the town's agricultural heritage with a blend of creativity and traditional entertainment.
Delight your taste buds with a series of four unique culinary experiences showcasing the flavors of Hastings. Leading the charge is acclaimed Chef Hari Pulapaka, a four-time James Beard Best Chef semi-finalist, owner of Global Cooking School and co-founder of the renowned Deland restaurant, Cress. With his expertise in sustainable food practices, Chef Pulapaka promises an enlightening journey into the world of cabbage, potato, and bacon.
Join Chef Pulapaka and special guest Chef Art Smith on Saturday, April 27th, at 10 a.m. for an engaging farm-to-table cooking demonstration. Chef Smith, a two-time James Beard Foundation award winner, brings his sixth-generation Floridian roots and culinary prowess to the stage, offering insights gleaned from his extensive experience on popular food shows.
Following the demonstration, at 11 a.m., prepare to be dazzled by St. Augustine's own Chef Michael Lugo of Viva Hospitality, representing local restaurants: Michael’s, Pesca Vilano and La Nouvelle. Known for his commitment to sourcing local ingredients, Chef Lugo's expertise in preparing the festival's star ingredients is unmatched.
At noon, delve into the Farm to Diner experience, where guests can engage in intimate conversations with local farmers about the journey from farm to table. Moderated by culinary experts, this panel discussion offers valuable insights into sustainable food practices.
Cap off your culinary adventure at the "Taste of Hastings" event from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m., where attendees can savor an array of mouthwatering dishes prepared by renowned local chefs, each showcasing their creative spin on cabbage, potatoes, and bacon.
Sunday brings the thrilling American Culinary Federation (ACF) Sanctioned Cooking Competition, where talented chefs vie for top honors using the festival's signature ingredients. Witness culinary excellence as chefs race against the clock to impress the judges with their culinary creations.
But the festival isn't just about food—it's also about fun and community spirit! Join in the Spud Run and Cabbage Crawl Fun Run on Saturday, April 27th, offering various distances for participants of all ages. Additionally, don't miss the excitement of the Great Hastings Mow Down Lawn Mower Races, featuring thrilling competitions along North Main Street.
For those with a taste for pageantry, the Miss Potato Queen Beauty Pageant is a highlight of the festival, showcasing local talent across various age categories.
Browse and indulge at the Outdoor Artisans Market, where vendors offer an eclectic array of goods, complemented by delicious fare from local food trucks. Live music sets the scene for a festive atmosphere throughout the weekend featuring local favorites Damon Slaughter, Bad Dog Mama, and Billy Buchanan.
Join us in celebrating Hastings agricultural heritage at this hometown festival. Plan your visit to Florida's Historic Coast and immerse yourself in the charm and flavors of Hastings!
