VHFD hosting cornhole tournament to benefit Muscular Dystrophy Association

To kick off its 2016 "Fill the Boot" campaign to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association, the Vestavia Hills Fire Department is hosting an afternoon of tailgating fun on the lawn of City Hall Saturday.

The main event will be a cornhole tournament with up to 40 teams and prizes for the first and second place finishers, but there will also be other games and prizes.

For football fans, there will be a big-screen TV to watch the afternoon's games, and guests are encouraged to bring their tailgating gear.

Fire departments across the country have been involved with the MDA, but VHPD Lieutenant David Abston said that this year, the department wanted to open up to the entire community.

"This year we wanted to do something a little bit different," Abston said, "We wanted to do something that was fun, and a tailgate atmosphere."

Abston said that in addition to the tailgating and cornhole, the department will also have fire trucks and a fire-safety vehicle at the event that families can look at and learn more about.

For the tournament itself, there is a maximum of 40 two-person teams, and Abston encouraged those interested to sign up early.

Registration for teams is $40 in advance and $50 day-of, with the proceeds benefitting the MDA. Registration will begin at 11 a.m., and "bags will fly" at noon.

Zoe's Kitchen will have snacks, but families are also encouraged to bring their own tailgating food and supplies.

For more information, visit vhfdcornhole.com or contact Abston at vhfdcornhole@gmail.com.