Everybody wants to “brie” the best.

Okay, that was bad.

But things are about to get even cheesier.

The 4th annual Gulf Coast Mac Down returns Nov. 1 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Mardi Gras Park, serving up heaps of gooey goodness and a helping of community spirit.

Presented by Spire Energy, the event celebrates the South’s food traditions, hospitality and love of mac and cheese while raising funds for The Cookery Project, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit tackling out-of-school hunger in South Alabama. One in four children in Alabama experience food insecurity, and proceeds from the event directly support the organization’s Tackling Out of School Hunger Initiative.

In 2024, the Mac Down helped fund 5,946 after-school meals and snacks for more than 2,091 students across the region according to the event website.

Competitors ages 10 and up will cook their way toward the coveted Golden Noodle Award and bragging rights as the South’s best mac and cheese maker.

Tickets are $14 for guests ages 6 and older and free for children 5 and under. Admission includes tastings, music from DJ Fergg, and a lineup of family fun such as cake walks, cookie decorating, face painting, a gaming truck, laser tag and an obstacle course. Pets are also welcome.

For those who really love mac and cheese, the MacCheesy Eatoff challenges participants to devour a half-pound of the dish for a shot at special prizes.

Beer, wine and nonalcoholic beverages will be available for purchase, and vendors along “S’mac Row” will sell additional treats.

Ticket details and more information on the event can also be found at www.gulfcoastmacdown.com. Mardi Gras Park is located at 109 Government St. in Mobile.