By Donna Cornelius
You can be a real food freak at Viva Vestavia XIII.
The annual Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce event always gives those who attend the opportunity to sample the city’s food, wine and beer. This year, there’s a twist: guests are encouraged to come not only hungry, but in costume.
The owners of Hollywood Pools, where the event will be held, suggested a scary slant since Viva Vestavia is set for Oct. 29, just before Halloween.
“Our theme is ‘Eat, Drink and Be Scary,’” said Karen Odle, Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce president and CEO.
Odle said Viva Vestavia limits restaurant participants to 24.
“Restaurants have to be located in the city of Vestavia or be Vestavia chamber members,” she said.
Odle said the event’s original purpose was to showcase the wide variety of eateries in Vestavia – and just how many there are.
“We have 83 restaurants in Vestavia,” she said. “This includes fast-food places, but we have everything from high-end restaurants like Satterfield’s, Bistro V and FoodBar to casual dining. There’s really something for everybody.”
Chefs might bring their signature dishes to Viva Vestavia or choose to introduce a new menu item, Odle said.
Wine will come from Contri Brothers Gift Basket and from Western Supermarkets and Publix wine vendors. Blackwell’s Pub will have tastings of high gravity beers.
The event also includes a silent auction. Valet parking will be available.
Odle said she plans to get in the Halloween spirit by wearing a costume that night.
“I’ll be keeping it simple, because I expect to be pretty busy that night,” she said, laughing. “We want everyone to enjoy themselves.”
Proceeds will go to the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s scholarship, capital and economic development funds.
Viva Vestavia XIII is 6:30-9 p.m. at Hollywood Pools, 1441 Montgomery Highway in Vestavia Hills.
Tickets are $40 and include food, wine and beer samples plus a commemorative wine glass.
Guests must be 21 or older.
Only 300 tickets to the event will be sold.
“This has become the social event of the fall in Vestavia,” Odle said.
For more information, visit www.vestaviahills.org or call 823-5011.
