The first annual Cows ‘n Cabs kicks off this weekend under a big-top tent in the West Meadow of Winter Park’s Central Park.

What’s Cows ‘n Cabs? I hear you asking. No, it has nothing to do with bovine driven taxis. Cows ‘n Cabs is a fundraiser to benefit non-profit charities that assist families in need within the Central Florida area. It’s the brainchild of 4Rivers Smokehouse owner John Rivers, who has assembeled a lineup of top chefs from around the region to cook for the event, and arranged to have the food paired with fantastic wines and craft beers.

Among the chefs who will be cooking are Kevin O’Donnell (The Meat House), Matt Wall-Iannarelli (Citrus), Chico Mendonca (Cocina 214), Kevin Fonzo (K), Brandon McGlamery (Luma on Park), Jame Petrakis (The Ravenous Pig), Christine Croche (Sweet Tomatoes), Hari Pulapaka (Cress), Gregory Richie (Emeril’s Tchoup Chop), Alex T. Brugger (Finesse), Steve Saelg (The Crooked Spoon). And, of course, John Rivers, whose chef expertise goes beyond beef brisket, although he certainly is known for that.

Adam Gertler, pictured above, of the Food Network will serve as the host and emcee for the evening’s proceedings.

This Western themed culinary event will feature live entertainment, including a band, live auction, and a raffle. The attire is your best cowboy duds — boots if you’ve got ‘em. Spurs optional.

General admission tickets are $110 in advance and $130 at the door. VIP tickets, which gets you in one hour before general admission ticket holders, are $140 in advance and $180 at the door. All proceeds benefit Coalition for the Homeless, Community Outreach and the Winter Park Y Scholarship Fund.

VIP ticket holders may enter at 6 p.m.; general admission is from 7 to 10 p.m.

Click this link to visit the Cows ‘n Cabs website where you can see more details about the event and purchase your tickets. (Get them online and save some money!)

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