The 6th annual Arizona BBQ Festival is returning to Salt River Fields Sat., May 2, from noon to 10 p.m. The more than 25 top barbecue purveyors are only part of what’s expected to draw the 15,000-plus people.
REDNECK GAMES. Back by popular demand for a third year is the Redneck Games Arena which will feature contests free to enter such as arm wrestling, watermelon seed spitting, bobbing for pig’s feet, beer pong and toilet seat horseshoes. Later in the day, the famous Daisy Dukes and cowboy boots beauty pageant takes place. Among the new additions: duck hunt video games stations and cow milking races.
BACON STATION. In between bites of brisket, pulled pork, and smoked chicken, guests can stop by what turned out to be the most popular part of the 2014 BBQ Festival – a vendor stand serving nothing but bowls of cooked bacon for $2 each. The event served more than 1,000 pounds of bacon last year, and event planners expect that number to grow.
BBQ. There will be more than 25 top pit-masters dishing out protein-packed pulled pork, ribs, brisket, chicken and sides. Vendors include the popular Honey Bears, Tom’s BBQ, Montana BBQ, Ragin’ Cajun and many more. To keep the event affordable, every vendor will offer a $2 sample item, up to three items in the $4-$8 range, and one full menu item priced higher (i.e., full rack of ribs, meat by the pound, etc.).
MUSIC & VODKA LEMONADES. The event’s Main Stage will be located under a giant party tent where Tito’s Vodka Lemonades will serve drinks on this warm May day. There, guests can enjoy performances by Neon Circus, voted “best Brookes & Dunn Tribute Band,” or The Troubadour Experience, paying tribute to country legend George Strait.
MECHANICAL BULL. Two mechanical bulls will allow guests to ride off against each other.
KID’S ZONE. There also will be a large Kid’s Zone (additional fees may apply) including bounce houses, slides, rides and more.
TICKETS. $12 GA and FREE parking; kids 12 and under FREE; $60 advance VIP, $75 at the gate. VIP tickets includes 5 drink tokens, 4 food tokens, private restrooms and seats next to the main stage. For tickets and information, visit www.azbbqfestival.com.
