The Market Shops’ 10th Annual Bloody Mary Festival raised $28,000 for Habitat for Humanity – Walton County at the sold-out event held Oct. 11.
- More than 800 attendees sampled Bloody Mary creations from 18 local restaurants, bars and a grocery store, all made with Distillery 98’s Half Shell Vodka. The event, powered by Step One Automotive Group, transformed the shopping center into a festival venue with tomato-themed balloon décor in the courtyard and grand lawn.
Participating establishments included Bayside Cafe, Big Bad Breakfast, Cafe Nola, Cajun Corner, Cantina Laredo, Down Island, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa, Island Wing Company, Jackacudas, Lola, Ovide, Red Bar and Louis Louis, Ruby Slipper, Sandos Beachside, The Perfect Pig and Winn Dixie.
Guests voted for the People’s Choice Awards, with results tabulated by Hill Coleman, CPA. Café Nola took first place, Down Island earned second and The Gulf Club placed third. A panel of food critics and regional media selected The Perfect Pig for the Judge’s Choice Award and Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa for Best Accoutrement. Local artist Maxine Orange created all the awards.
“Our 10th anniversary festival was the best one yet,” said Bob Duncan, managing partner of The Market Shops. “We were thrilled to see such an incredible turnout of neighbors, visitors, and local businesses all coming together to celebrate and support the meaningful work of Habitat for Humanity in Walton County.”
Since its inception, the festival has raised over $278,600 for local charities. Habitat for Humanity – Walton County has been the beneficiary for the past eight years.
- “We are so grateful to benefit from this festival,” said Teresa Jones, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Walton County. “The funds raised will go directly to support our next Habitat development of nine affordable homes.”
Jones added that events like the festival bring people together while making a lasting impact on children and families in Walton County.
The money raised through ticket sales, donations and sponsorship will support Habitat for Humanity – Walton County’s efforts to build and provide homes for working families in the area.
