Fierce competition and flavors highlight Bloody Mary Fest

Hundreds came out to paint the town red Sunday at Everts Park in Highwood.

Though, the annual Bloody Mary Fest actually produced yellow and green cocktails as well as the iconic red version that was the center of the celebration.

The tomato-based concoction was not the only entertainment on the afternoon. Food vendors and live music added to the festivities.

Still, the bloody mary remained the focus, and 15 participants joined the competition from near and far. Highwood spots like Disotto, Slyce and 28 Mile Distillery could walk on over to the fest, while others, such as Famous Barry’s from downstate Altamont, Illinois, an event sponsor, had a more significant trek — about four hours more significant.

Everybody had their take on the classic drink. Slyce infused its pizza sauce, and My Dad’s BBQ used the family barbecue sauce. La Casa de Isaac’s use of jalapenos and lime juice complemented its green bloody, and Pixca, of Highland Park, had a yellow bloody from golden tomatoes and a bright red offering made from beets.

In the end, the judges (including Highland Park resident Emily Schiller) and eventgoers made their choices.

The People’s Choice Awards, voted on by guests, including the No. 1 spot (the Proud Mary Award) went to:

• First: My Dad’s BBQ (Danny Wilk, of Deerfield)

• Second: 28 Mile Distillery (Highwood)

• Third: Pixca (Highland Park)

And the judges top award winners were:

• First: La Casa de Isaac and Moishe (Highland Park and Highwood)

• Second: 28 Mile Distillery

• Third: Good Stuff Eats (Highland Park)

The annual Bloody Mary Fest is a product of Celebrate Highwood, which also puts on an evening market on Wednesdays, Highwood Days with Taco Fest, Inferno Fest, Garlic Fest, Pumpkin Fest and more.

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