What Mac & Cheese Can Bring to a Community
By Michael Clites
While California State University of Bakersfield hosts numerous events on their grounds, there is always one that seems to sell out every year. This Bakersfield event is none other than the Mac & Cheese Festival. The festival took place on Saturday April 12; where there were 18 restaurants participating in the festivals contest for “Best Mac & Cheese.” From deep fried to soup form, it is safe to say that the festival didn’t lacked in creativity. Café Med (a restaurant located in south east Bakersfield) took home the grand prize for having the best macaroni and cheese plate. A dish that was all to cheesy so resist, Café Med had managed to make a deep fried macaroni and cheese plate that surprised many at first, but after tasted, the skeptics were convinced.
But this festival isn’t just about the fabulous mac and cheese. A total of 16 wineries and breweries were also in attendance in which wine was given for sampling and beer was mostly given to refresh those walking around in the sun all day. And while the adults were being entertained by these things, there was plenty to do for the children and family! From a corn hole tournament, to a potato sack hopping contest, children of all ages had smiles on their faces.
But what is the purpose to all this delicious fun? The objective of the festival is to raise funds and awareness for 170 of the member Children’s Hospitals across North America. “The attendance is always outstanding, but never overwhelming every year that I come,” says a spectator at the event, “My family and have followed this festival all over California and it never seems to disappoint because my wife, daughters, and myself are entertained by the food and events here.” By selling out for the second time in its existence, the 2014 Mac & Cheese Festival raised over an estimated five thousand dollars for Children’s Miracle Network.
Yes, the festival seems to be getting better and better every year with more sponsors and participants gaining interest. Hopefully, this event can continue to sell out and raise the funds and awareness for the children’s hospitals nationwide.