Smoked, slathered, rubbed and brined – bring on the meat! HDE Agency announced the inaugural Rib Fest Throwdown is set for April 25 and 26 in partnership with the City of Surprise. Get ready to sink your teeth into perfectly cooked ribs, tender brisket and savory pork from the country’s best barbecuers who will compete for a cash prize and circuit bragging rights.
Festival grounds will be filled with the sweet smells of burning wood, crackling meats and savory sauces as attendees enjoy different types of ribs and BBQ. In addition to some incredible eats, attendees will revel in live entertainment, carnival rides, themed competitions, games, and more.
The Rib Fest Throwdown – the battle of Texas versus Kansas City BBQ highlights Surprise’s history with MLB’s Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers making it the perfect place to host this showdown.
“We are thrilled to partner with the City of Surprise to launch this exciting event,” said Landon Evans owner of HDE Agency. “Supporting the economic growth and working together to build a cornerstone event for the city that will come to be recognized as an annual program is both rewarding and awesome.”
The family-friendly, two-day event will be packed with activities including a kid’s zone, eating competitions, flair performers, “battle of the bands” with a rotating schedule of live performances from national country legends and local groups. Stay tuned for national artists announcements.
“The City of Surprise is extremely excited to partner with HDE Agency to bring a signature event to Surprise,” said Kendra Pettis, City of Surprise Sports and Tourism Director. “HDE has distinguished itself as a premier event agency and produced some of the most successful events in the Valley. This festival will be a great addition to the community offering both residents and visitors an opportunity to experience tasty food, quality entertainment and the start of a new tradition.”
The rib battle will take place at the City of Surprise Mark Coronado Park located at 15850 N. Bullard Ave. in Surprise. The event grounds will be open 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. To purchase tickets, visit www.azribfestthrowdown.com. Presale tickets are available, two for $16, four for $30 or six for $40. A presale Stay and Play pack that includes a local hotel room and two-day tickets for two is available for $125. Day of general admission will be $10. Kids 12 and under are free. VIP and two-day passes are also available.
A portion of the proceeds from the festival will benefit a Mighty Change of Heart a local nonprofit dedicated to providing support to foster children in Arizona. One of the organization’s core programs is to give personalized duffle bags with essentials to foster kids.
For more information about the Rib Fest Throwdown a Battle between Texas and Kansas City style BBQ follow them on Facebook and Instagram at @RibFestThrowdown or visit the website www.azribfestthrowdown.com
