The bad news is it’s cold, dreary, and dark in Wisconsin and it’s going to probably only get much worse in that regard before things turn around in, like, late April or whatever. The good news is we’ve firmly and emphatically entered casserole season. Yes, when the temperatures become frigid, the dishes get hot on dinner tables throughout the region. As a prevalent Midwest delicacy, the almighty casserole is an undisputed seasonal standby around these parts.

In an effort to celebrate this creamy, cheesy, hearty, affordable, tasty, and wide-ranging culinary creation, Milwaukee Record is proud to present the second annual “Casserole Call” event this weekend. Yes, on Sunday, December 8, a variety of Milwaukee-based restaurants, bars, specialty grocers, and hot sauce purveyors will come to Falcon Bowl to dish up samples of their own casserole creations. While it’s a pretty self-explanatory event, we figured we’d get you up to speed on pretty much everything you need to know about the second installment of Casserole Call.

When and where is it again?

Casserole Call will take place Sunday, December 8 at Falcon Bowl (located at 801 E. Clarke St.) from 12-4 p.m. Though the event runs until 4 p.m., we strongly recommend getting there before 3 p.m. while the casserole is fresh and abundant. Tickets are $9 in advance and $15 at the door.

How does it work?

You buy your ticket (or pay at the door, preferably with cash). Upon entering, you’ll be given a ballot and three tickets for free samples. Additional sample tickets can be purchased for $1 apiece at the Milwaukee Record table. We strongly recommend bringing cash, though we will have Square readers to process debit card transactions as well. From there, just give your tickets to vendors and get a sample of their casserole. Spoon the food into your mouth, chew it adequately, swallow it, and begin the digestion process. Repeat as often as you want. It’s as simple as that!

Who’s all involved in Casserole Call?

You’re encouraged to taste samples from the likes of A&M Local Provisions, Beans & Barley, Black Husky Brewing, Flour Girl & Flame, Goodkind, Kinship Community Food Center, The National Cafe, Outpost Natural Foods, Riverwest Co-Op, and Semolina MKE. With such an eclectic lineup, you’re bound to find a wide variety of casseroles to try, including some veggie options for those who don’t eat meat.

What can I drink?

Fortunately, Casserole Call is taking place at one of the oldest sanctioned bowling alleys and bars in the country, so there will be tons of delicious beers (including High Life, the event’s sponsor!) and a wide selection of liquor available for purchase at the bar if you want a drink or two to help cut through the sodium. Don’t drink alcohol? There will also be some N/A options, including soda and water available.

What’s with the ballot?

We’re glad you asked! Beyond being a day to sample a bunch of tasty casseroles, those who attend are also invited to cast their vote for their favorite casserole they try. Circle your selection and drop it in the ballot box. The winning casserole competitor will be announced on this very website on Monday morning. They’ll also receive a plaque (eventually, it’s still not finished) and some well-deserved free ad space on Milwaukee Record. Most importantly, the winning establishment can also confidently say they make The Best Casserole In Milwaukee. Make your voice heard, support your favorite local restaurant, and come on down to cast your vote.

But the Packers are playing?

No, they’re playing Thursday night. And we’re sure Falcon Bowl will be playing other NFL games on their TVs during this, so you’re all set there, too!

Anything else?

Yep! A portion of proceeds brought in from Casserole Call ticket sales and sample purchases will be donated to Kinship Community Food Center, so you can feel good knowing that hanging out in a Riverwest ballroom and chowing down is actually helping those in need. Come to Falcon Bowl on Sunday, December 8 to eat some casserole with us, drink some High Life (or whatever you want), and help an area food pantry in the process. We’ve officially issued a Casserole Call. Will you answer?