The 7th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival brought in $60,000 to support The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast, organizers announced Thursday.

• The family-friendly event, held Sunday, March 16 at Destin Commons, featured gourmet macaroni and cheese dishes created by local chefs and restaurants competing for top honors in multiple categories.

“Our 7th Mac & Cheese Festival was a phenomenal success, far surpassing our hopes,” said Shervin Rassa, chief executive officer of The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast. “We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who attended, our talented culinary participants, Destin Commons and our generous sponsors.”

The funds will support the organization’s programs focused on academic success, character development, citizenship, and healthy lifestyles. These initiatives serve more than 5,000 youth annually throughout the region.

Recess After Dark took first place in both the People’s Choice and Kids’ Choice categories, while Fudpucker’s earned the top spot in the Judges’ Choice competition.

• Other winners included LESGO Chef (second place in People’s Choice and Judges’ Choice), Boathouse (third place in People’s Choice), Jackacuda’s (second place in Kids’ Choice), Longhorn Steakhouse (third place in Kids’ Choice), and Recess After Dark (third place in Judges’ Choice).

The event featured eleven competitors in total, including Fresh Cravez, Holi, Cantina Laredo, I Heart Mac & Cheese, Emerald Coast Vibe, and others.

“Because of you, we’re able to continue making a lasting impact on our kids,” Rassa said. “We’re already excited to plan an even bigger 8th year!”