ABOUT THE EVENT

What is the purpose of this event?

Inspired by the interests of some of Vero’s top chefs combined with UP’s goal to host a very family-friendly, affordable event that everyone could enjoy.

How does this event raise money?

All proceeds from the Best Burger Contest, VIP Lounge, event t-shirts, and beverage sales support United Against Poverty of Indian River County, helping individuals and families overcome poverty and achieve economic self-sufficiency.

What sponsorship opportunities do you have?

Thank you for your interest in becoming a sponsor! Please click here for our sponsorship form which details the opportunities available.

Where can I learn more about United Against Poverty?

We encourage you to learn more about our organization on our website, www.upirc.org, and like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/UPIndianRiver. If you would like to visit our campus and see our empowering programs first-hand, please email AJackson@unitedagainstpoverty.org to schedule a tour.

BURGER TASTING

What is included in a Punch Card?

Punch Cards are the best way to experience this event! Each card is good for 5 mouth-watering sliders. Secure your tickets in advance for just $25 or purchase on-site for $30 on the day of the event!

How do I reserve my Punch Card?

Please click here to purchase your pass in advance. Supplies are limited.

Can I sample the sliders without a Punch Card?

No, the only way to indulge in the mouthwatering sliders from Burgers & Brews is by purchasing a ticket that includes the Slider Tasting Punch Card. Don’t miss out on the chance to savor five delicious sliders from top local restaurants—grab your punch card and taste your way to burger bliss!

What is included with the VIP ticket?

Enjoy exclusive access to the VIP air conditioned Lounge and private restrooms, open from 11 AM to 4 PM, with premium seating and unbeatable views of the Main Stage. Your VIP pass includes a Slider and Beer Tasting Punch Cards, along with complimentary cocktails (2) and soft drinks for the ultimate festival experience. Click here to reserve you VIP ticket today — supplies are limited.

Do I get to vote in the Best Burger Contest?

Yes! In addition to the judged competition, chefs also compete for the prestigious People’s Choice Award, decided by your votes. With each Slider Punch Card, you’ll receive a voting token to cast your vote for your favorite slider. Be sure to submit your vote by 2:30 PM at the voting tent, located next to the VIP tent near the crossroads at the center of the park.

BEST BURGER COMPETITION

What is the grand prize of the Best Burger Competition?

Join us at the Main Stage for the highly anticipated ceremony where winners will earn the title of “Indian River’s Best Burger.” The winning chefs will receive a trophy to proudly display in their restaurant for a year, along with bragging rights as the top burger makers in the county! In addition, they will receive a plaque to showcase at their location for years to come.

How does my restaurant enter the Best Burger Competition?

Please click here to complete an entry form.

What are the rules of the Best Burger Competition?

“Teams” can consist of up to four (4) people, but one member must be chosen as team captain (aka head cook). Teams can be as small as one individual.
United Against Poverty will have limited griddles available on a first come first serve basis, you are welcome to bring your own grill/smoker/griddle.
Please note that generators are not allowed. No electrical access will be available; vendors may use battery-operated fans only.
Agree to cook and serve up to 400 sliders or mini burgers between 11:00am and 2:30pm during the Burgers & Brews Festival.
No beer or beverage pairings will be allowed to compliment your burger during judging.
You will be provided with an outdoor cooking area within your designated space and must be 10 feet away from the next competitor.
All property and equipment used for cooking must be confined to your allocated space. All equipment must be free standing - no stakes, postholes, or digging is allowed.
All food products must be stored and maintained at safe temperatures.
Each contestant competing shall supply all of their own burger meat, cooking ingredients, utensils, preparation tables, etc.
All burgers must consist of cooked patties of ground meat and/or ground vegetarian product, placed between bread or comparable substitutes to form a sandwich honoring the traditional American Hamburger.
Team Captain is responsible for team conduct. “No alcoholic beverages (except when used for cooking) and/or misconduct by team members or guests will be allowed”.
Each team is responsible for cleaning up their cooking area by 4:00p.m.
United Against Poverty of Indian River County, sponsors, and volunteers of the Best Burger Competition will not be held responsible for loss, damage, theft, injury or accidents.
Entry deadline is Monday, May 4th, 2026 at 5 p.m. EST.
UAP will provide a VIP pass for each team to use air-conditioned restrooms, cool off in air-conditioned tent, and water. No alcohol beverges will be allowed.
Each team will be offered a vendor booth to be placed in the vendor area of the event to promote their restaurant. No sale or distribution of burgers will be allowed at the vendor booth. Please let us know if you would like a vendor space in the vendor section.
Chef meeting will be on Friday, June 5th, 2026, at the UP Center. We will also have Zoom capabilities for anyone needing to attend remotely. THIS IS A MANDATORY MEETING.
Onsite preparation can start as early as 8:00am on event day.
All competition areas must be set up by 9:45am for a Fire Marshal inspection.
A Best Burger Competitor brief meeting will take place at 9:45am. All competitors must be present
Judging begins at 11:00a.m. on June 27, 2026. A Burgers & Brews team member will visit each competitor anonymously and select one slider for each celebrity judge. This ensures that the People’s Choice Award voters and the celebrity judges will be reviewing the same food. No time slots will be assigned.
Sliders may earn up to 40 points from each judge--10 points for presentation (appearance), 10 points for creativity/uniqueness of the burger, 10 points for taste/flavor, 10 points for technique. The burger with the highest point value wins the Judges Choice Award
All results are final. Teams are reminded that this is a family friendly burger festival and cooking competition. Sportsmanship is required at all time.
The first 20 completed applications are guaranteed entry in cooking competitions. Festival officials will try to accommodate additional entries.

VENDORS

What type of vendors are welcome, and what is the rate?

We welcome vendors of all kinds to join the excitement at Burgers & Brews, a fundraiser benefiting United Against Poverty. Nonprofit vendors participate free of charge, merchant vendors (selling goods or services) are now just $50, and Young Entrepreneurs can join for only $10. We also have limited space for additional food vendors offering options beyond burgers. Food trucks can secure a spot for $200. Booth space is limited and assigned on a first-come, first-served basis once payment is received. Reserve your spot today and be part of this exciting community event!

What is included with vendor space?

Each vendor will receive a 10’ x 10’ space to showcase their products or services to attendees. Vendors are responsible for bringing their own tables, chairs, tents and weights. While not required, tents are highly recommended for shade and weather protection.

How do I reserve a space?

Click here to download our Food Vendor Application form .

Click here to download our Vendor Application form .

MISCELLANEOUS

What time is the Apple Pie Eating Contest and how can I join?

The Apple Pie Eating Contest is at 2:30p.m. on the mainstage. If you're interested in competing in the Apple Pie Eating Contest, be at the main stage at 2:15p.m.

What time is the Beer Chugging Contest and how do I play?

The Beer Chugging Contest begins at 2:45p.m. Contestants will race against each other in a fun and fast-paced competition. To participate, contestants must show no signs of inebriation prior to the contest and meet by the main stage at 2:30p.m. The challenge begins with chugging one beer, followed by flipping the cup like in the classic flip cup game. Then, it’s time for a second beer chug & flip, till the first person to flip their 4th cup wins the contest! It’s a thrilling event you won’t want to miss—get ready to cheer on the competitors!

Should we bring anything like beach chairs to the festival?

Sunscreen is strongly encouraged. Are you planning to enjoy the sounds of the band? Be sure to bring your beach chairs for a comfortable day at the park! Event merchandise, including light blankets will be available for purchase at the main entrance.