Bananna Split Festival Set for Ohio

What could be more decadent on a hot summer day than a good old fashioned banana split? What about eating a banana split while watching professional chefs create their own special rendition? Expect to see original and extraordinary one-of-a-kind creations at the annual Master’s Competition at Wilmington, Ohio’s Banana Split Festival. The competition takes place at 3 pm on Saturday, June 13, at the J.W. Denver Williams Park.

Past Masters’ have brought their banana splits to the winner’s circle exhibiting a wide range of influences – Asian, Latin, Italian, and American. The magic comes alive as each chef creates a work of art, in appearance and in taste.

Probably the toughest job at the Banana Split Festival is judging the Master’s Competition, but somebody’s got to do it, right? There’s all that tasting! In spite of the pleasures associated with being a judge, this is serious business as only one chef can be named the Banana Split Master. The lineup of judges in 2009 includes Jerry Allison, chef for Winedog Fine Wines & Catering and a food columnist for Brown Publishing, Mark Branham, media consultant for Over The Back Fence Magazine, Ed McMasters, marketing manager for CincinnatiUSA.com Regional Tourism Network, and the 2008 Master, Scott Lamphear, executive chef for the Roberts Centre. It’s a sure bet they will be envied by all the spectators.

The fun isn’t limited to professional chefs. Amateurs are invited to compete in their own division. If you have ever watched a food competition on the Food Network and thought to yourself that you have a recipe that could easily make the nation drool, this competition is for you.

Like most contests, there are some rules. The challenge is to proudly create a special "banana split dessert." While creativity is encouraged, at least four of the eight ingredients contained in the "original" banana split – banana, ice cream, pineapple topping/sauce/flavor, strawberry topping/sauce/flavor, chocolate topping/sauce/flavor, whipped cream, nuts, and cherries, must be used. The judges base their vote on appearance, creativity, and taste.

There is no cost to participate in either contest but those who would like to compete are asked to pre-register. Call the Clinton County Visitors Bureau at 877-428-4748 for a registration form.

The Banana Split Festival, in its 15th year, takes place June 12, 4 pm to 10 pm, and June 13, noon to 10 pm. After watching the Master’s Competition, why not make your own banana split at the "split bar." Then take in the classic car show, shop for crafts and commercial items, eat some comfort food, play carnival games, and listen to ’50s and ’60s music by well known groups specializing in this genre. For more details, visit www.bananasplitfestival.com

Courtesy of  leisuregrouptravel.com