A beloved Carolina Beach tradition is back this weekend as local cooks gear up for the Island Men’s Mac and Cheese Festival. The competition takes place Saturday, March 21, at Good Hops Brewing, with VIP entry at noon and general admission starting at 1 p.m. and running through 3. About 35 cooks—from restaurants to pros to home‑kitchen heroes—will compete across categories like traditional, meat, spicy, seafood, and vegetarian.

Proceeds support local charities and youth programs, including scholarships and groups like Little Pink Houses, Martha’s Kitchen, and Ocean Cure.Tickets are $10 for general admission and $25 for VIP and can be purchased here, with limited competitor spots still open. Pets and strollers aren’t allowed.









