Around 2,000 guests will gather from 3-8 p.m. on June 11 for a community picnic at Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, 5055 Ann Arbor Saline Road in Ann Arbor. In its 28th year, Grillin' is an event for all ages featuring live music, food from more than 50 local restaurants, beer and wine, a silent auction and activities for kids.
While Grillin' is a light-hearted, family event, its mission is serious: to alleviate hunger in Washtenaw County. The event raises awareness and support for Food Gatherers' food rescue and food bank program, and enables the food bank to distribute food for 14,000 meals a day to 44,500 adults, seniors and children.
More than 250 local businesses are donating to the menu, silent auction, and entertainment offerings, and through cash sponsorships. Guests can look forward to a menu of grilled gourmet sausages, chicken, corn, tofu, vegetarian burgers, and side dishes from local restaurants, followed by desserts from Zingerman's Bakehouse, Zingerman's Creamery and Mity Nice Italian Ice. Vegan and gluten-free options are available. The bar features Michigan wine and microbrews.
This year's band lineup includes blues and rock beats from Grillin's longtime headliner, George Bedard and the Kingpins. The stage also features Ann Arbor-based singer/songwriter Chris Dupont, and up and coming indie-pop artist, Lisa Richie. Grillin' is broadcast live on ann arbor's 107one with Grillin's master of ceremonies, Rob Reinhart.
Families can enjoy an area just for kids, with activities hosted by the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, a free photo booth, lawn games, and face painting.
Adult tickets are $75 in advance and $10 for kids ages 3-13 (kids under 3 are free). At the gate, adult tickets are $85; kid tickets are $10. Ticket price includes buffet, dessert and entertainment.
Tickets are available at http://www.foodgatherers.org/grillin or by calling 734-761-2796. Tickets are also available at ticket vendors: Zingerman's Bakehouse, Deli and Roadhouse; Bookbound Bookstore; Dexter Picture Frame Company; and Saline Picture Frame Company.
