DESTIN, Fla. — The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast (BGCEC) has announced that its 5th Annual Burgers, Bourbon & Beer Festival raised $50,000 to support youth programs serving more than 5,000 local children each year.
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The festival, held on September 20, 2025, behind Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer, brought the community together for a day of food, drinks, and friendly competition, all benefiting BGCEC’s mission to provide life-changing opportunities for young people across Northwest Florida.
“Our 5th Annual Burgers, Bourbon & Beer Festival was a phenomenal success,” said Shervin Rassa, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast.
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended, our talented culinary participants, and our generous sponsors. Because of your support, we can continue creating life-changing experiences for our kids.”
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Funds raised from the event will help BGCEC continue programs that nurture academic success, character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles. The organization serves youth across Okaloosa, Walton, and surrounding counties, providing safe spaces and mentorship for local children.
This year’s festival featured creative burgers, unique toppings, and a range of bourbon and beer selections from local restaurants and food trucks competing for festival honors.
Winners included:
People’s Choice Awards
1st place: The Flavor Fusionists
2nd place: Royal-Rednecks Food Truck
3rd place: Sauce Boss Burger Co.
Judge’s Choice Awards
Best overall: Ruby Slipper Cafe
Most creative: The Flavor Fusionists
Best topping: Royal-Rednecks Food Truck
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BGCEC expressed gratitude to its sponsors, including Publix, Cox Communications, Higginbotham Insurance, Cumulus Media Destin-FWB, Lamar, Emerald Coast Insurance Agency, Newport Square, Sunbelt Rentals, Acentria, Buffalo Rock, Calumet Farm Bourbon, Proximo Spirits, Yellowstone Bourbon, Sazerac, The Longdrink, Breakthru Beverage, Destin Brewery, and Lewis Bear.
To learn more about programs and volunteer opportunities, visit the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast website.
