Rev Up for Redland Rallye

In truth, "revving up" isn't quite the correct phrase, as this popular event is intended to be "A fruity tropical scavenger hunt through the countryside, the annual Redland Riot Road Rallye is a rolling adventure for foodies, history buffs and car enthusiasts -- or anyone who enjoys the discovery of wonderful places along the road less traveled."

Saturday, January 18th, 2025, is the day when returnees and new attendees alike will gather at historic Cauley Square to check their teams in between 10:00 11:00 am and proceed to eight different stops ending at Schnebly Redland's Winery in the Miami Brewing Company Tap Room, where laughter and fun will continue.

For newcomers, each car (or other vehicle) is a "team" and will visit stops such as Knaus Berry Farm, the Fruit and Spice Park, RF Orchids, Homestead Town Hall Museum, the Seminole Theatre, the Florida Pioneer Museum, Robert Is Here fruit stand and finally, Schnebly Redland's Winery and the Tap Room at Miami Brewing Company.

It works by pre-registering online, then signing in at 10:00 am at Cauley Square (22400 Old Dixie Hwy, Miami; actually Goulds). The map and driving directions will be provided, as well as some clues that must be deciphered along the way while visiting the interesting locations in the Redland countryside, Homestead, and Florida City.

Answer sheets are turned in by 4:00 pm at the Tap Room, where they will be scored. The crowd usually enjoys food, beverages, and socializing as answers are checked. Winning teams are announced at 5:30 pm, although there are almost always ties. In the past, extra questions have been posed to break the tie. Prizes of various local items will be awarded to the winner or winners.

"All rallye participants receive free entrance ($12.50 value) to the Saturday Night At The Winery Event with live music. After 5:30 pm, we will announce the winner and give away a prize package of gifts and gift certificates worth less than one million dollars -- and the bragging rights as winner of the Redland Riot Road Rallye."

A number of the stops have food or beverages available, such as fruit-based milkshakes, pastries, and sandwiches. Although most places do take credit cards, carrying cash is recommended. Footwear suitable for walking is also a good idea. Other lunchtime dining options will be passed along the route or be close to the route, like the City Hall Bistro in historic Hotel Redland, and Chefs on the Run.

Even if participants don't take time to linger in stops such as the Homestead Townhall Museum or sit for a meal at Capri/MayaMex in Florida City, these are the kinds of places where "We'll have to come back here soon" will be said.

Some teams look forward to the event each year and welcome first-timers to share the adventure. The cost to participate is $20 per team. Get more details and register your car team in advance on the Redland Riot website, https://redlandriot.com.