Family fun at Grill Off

Keisha Shakespeare-Blackmore, Staff Reporter

As the sizzling aroma of grilled chicken and pork tickled the nostrils and whet the appetites of individuals at Hope Gardens last Saturday, it was evident that it was not your average day at the tranquil venue.

Instead, the lawns were transformed into a sea of grills for the Appleton All-Jamaica Grill Off. And families and friends gave up their usual Saturday chores to enjoy the tasty offerings.

The heat was unbearable but women came prepared in little dresses, shorts, sandals and shades, while men sported cargo shorts with T-shirts and some comfortable slacks and polo shirts with sandals.

Twenty contestants vied for for the title of best griller in the categories of chicken, beef, pork, seafood and sauce. The contestants went all out to please and the hungry had no qualms as they went from booth to booth sampling the offerings. Sponsors, too, had much to offer.

The Appleton martini booths were a hit for many who just hung out in small groups sipping peach and pomegranate martinis.

The children, too, had a whale of a time in the Keebler Kiddies Korner. Activities included mechanical bull, bounceabout and face-painting.

(See yesterday's Gleaner Food section for details of the winners).