Rain Couldn’t Keep Country Music Lovers Away From KISS Country Chili Cookoff
The highly anticipated country music festival was nearly washed out. Despite the rain, it was an amazing day of music as some of the best music coming out of Nashville took over South Florida’s music scene. January 26th was a day filled with chili, beer and a never-ending dose of music at the 34th Annual KISS 99.9 Country Chili Cook-Off. It was a day where the dress of choice consisted of rain ponchos, cowboy hats and muddy shoes. It certainly wasn’t the typical chili cookoff where sunshine is usually aplenty. However, despite the deluge of rain that had been consistent overnight, it did little to dampen the spirits of those attending this must-be-there-every-year event.
With the beer flowing and the chili stewing, the music kicked off on time with a lighter than normal but understandably sparse crowd.
Rain and all, 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 included bright sunshine and warm temps, typical for South Florida.
With just one main stage, the sound quality was superb, there were no noticeable technical issues, and the music could be heard throughout all parts of the festival. The lighting was sufficient, but with the darkness looming, a brighter stage lighting setup could have enhanced the music performances.
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 also 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. However, many coming to the entry gates found themselves disappointed that umbrellas were not allowed into the festival grounds, even though it was posted on the website and entrance to the festival. The pile of discarded umbrellas grew as many decided the walk back to the car was simply not worth it.
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 managed. 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 missing a beat.
As morning turned into the early afternoon, Mother Nature showed us some mercy and provide the concertgoers with a several-hour break in the rain. It was a chance to ditch the plastic bags, rain ponchos and anything else that was worn. Although the sunshine never came, the crowds did. Many who had hung out in their cars, vans and RVs made their way into the festival, the artists kicked the music up, and it was time to jam.
Headline acts this year included Brooks & Dunn, LoCash and Luke Combs. Country music lovers showed up as early as midnight to make sure they got the full experience of this strongly supported festival. With an unofficial estimate of 20,000-plus in attendance, it’s a clear indication that people in South Florida love country music.
The festival included a steady stream of some of Nashville’s finest. Rodney Atkins, Tyler Rich, Jon Langston, Runaway June, the James Barker Band, Dylan Schneider and Adam Hambrick delivered performances that will be long remembered.
The music was superb, and all of the bands performed above expectations, but the buzz on Saturday was the performance by LoCash. 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 band will gladly welcome them back to South Florida anytime they wish to perform.
The highly anticipated set by Brooks and Dunn was outstanding. It was late in the afternoon when the legendary duo took the stage, and by then the rain had returned and didn’t dampen the energy that was buzzing as everyone welcomed the Nashville natives.
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 may have bonded under a plastic bag or shared a poncho; 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 2020!