Chili Wasn’t the Only Thing Cookin’ at the KISS 99.9 Country Chili Cook-Off
Country music took over South Florida’s music scene this past weekend for a day filled with music, chili, beer and more music at the KISS 99.9 Country Chili Cook-Off. In a sea of plaid shirts, denim jeans and plenty of cowboy hats, there was no shortage of country music fans who enjoyed a near-perfect day for the 33rd year of this great festival.
With temperatures in the low 70’s and partly cloudy skies, the cook-off and concerts made for a perfect way to spend a January day. For those who attended last year’s cook-off, this year was quite different. As many of you know, last year the rain dampened the event and made for a disappointing day despite a fabulous lineup.
With just one main stage, the sound quality was excellent, there were no noticeable technical issues, and the music could be heard at the far end of the grounds. The lighting was adequate at best, considering it was a daytime show. The music and bands transitioned seamlessly, and the music started on time for every act.
The festival layout worked well for concertgoers who came to eat, drink and listen. The food options were plenty; not only was chili the popular choice, but there were plenty of other eats that included everything from pizza and tacos to grilled corn and even arepas. There were plenty of liquid offerings, too. For those who wanted an alcoholic beverage, the ID-checking process was well done. A bracelet was issued to those who were of age, and the drinks were sold by ticket purchase only. This seem to work well and most likely prevented underage drinking. There were plenty of water, soda and beer stands to be had. The food and beverage section circled the seating area, so getting food and drink was very quick and easy without skipping a beat.
If security was a concern for anyone attending this event, those concerns were quickly dismissed. The organizers planned well in advance to make sure that everyone was not only safe, but that they knew it. The Broward County Sheriffs were everywhere, and that show of strength clearly set the tone that there would be little tolerance for shenanigans.
Headline acts this year included Darius Rucker, Midland, Maren Morris, Brandon Lay, Old Dominion and Big & Rich. The sea of plaid shirts, Wrangler Jeans, and cowboy hats was aplenty for this event. Country music lovers showed up in droves, with an unofficial estimate of 30,000 plus in attendance. It’s a clear indication that people in South Florida love country music.
The music was superb, and all of the bands performed above expectations, but the buzz on Saturday was the performance by Big & Rich. When you have a group with the stage presence of a band that gets the crowd out of their chairs, you know you’ve hit a high note. Fans of this country music duo, will be gladly welcome them back to South Florida, anytime they wish to perform.
The highly anticipated Darius Rucker was outstanding. It was late in the afternoon when Rucker took the stage, and by then the energy was buzzing as everyone welcomed the former Hootie and the Blowfish lead singer. Rucker has made quite a name in country music over the past five years, and he performed like a true country music star.
Maren Morris, who had been on tour in Mexico, flew to South Florida just for this show. She has recently made quite a splash in Nashville and certainly didn’t disappoint South Florida’s music lovers.
Overall, the KISS Country Chili Cook-Off delivered what fans wanted. For many, it was a day to hang out with friends, eat some of the best chili in Florida, and listen to some of the best country music on tour.
Based on the turnout, this is one event that will surely continue to delight those who attend. It was a chance to meet up with old friends and make some new ones. If you were there, you know what I’m saying, if you missed it, better plan on going, because I have already circled my calendar for next year. I’m sure many will be anxiously waiting to find out who will be jamming Pembroke Pines in 2019.
