West Palm Beach gets “Fired Up” as the 11th Annual BBQ, Brews and Blues returns with food music and family fun

West Palm Beach, Florida – The smell of barbecue, the sound of live blues and the promise of a lively night for families will return to West Palm Beach next month as the city prepares for the 11th Annual BBQ, Brews and Blues.

The free community event is scheduled for Saturday, September 5, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Heart & Soul Park, located at 825 N. Rosemary Ave. This year’s event carries a “Fired Up” theme and will bring together barbecue vendors, musicians, craft beer, children’s activities, contests and other entertainment in the Historic Northwest.

The annual celebration has become a major community event in the area, combining food and music with activities designed for people of different ages. City officials say this year’s lineup will offer familiar favorites while adding several new opportunities for visitors to take part.

“For 10 years, BBQ, Brews and Blues has brought our community together for great food, unforgettable music, and family-friendly memories,” said Mayor Keith A. James. “I am proud to see this beloved tradition return with a little more flavor this year! I invite residents and visitors alike to join us for an evening celebrating the flavors, sounds, spirit, and rich community heritage that make the Historic Northwest so special.”

At the center of the event will be the BBQ Throwdown, where 10 South Florida barbecue restaurants and food trucks will compete for $1,500 in prize money. The first-place winner will receive $1,000 along with the event’s trophy. A separate People’s Choice award comes with a $500 prize, with the winner scheduled to be announced at 8 p.m.

The competition will feature GA’s Smokin BBQ, Earl’s Slow And Low BBQ, Simmer Down Bar & Grill, Clark’s BBQ & More, Twisted Smoke BBQ, DA KING OF BBQ, A&A ROADSIDE BBQ & JERK CENTER, Eat Da Bone BBQ, Third’s BBQ and Foster’s BBQ.

Visitors will not only get to watch the competition. They will also have the opportunity to sample food from the participating vendors and decide which barbecue deserves their support.

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There will be another contest for sauce lovers. The Sauce Throwdown will give barbecue and sauce vendors a chance to compete separately, with $500 going to the winner.

Among the sauce and spice vendors expected at the event are CHAKALAKA, Sweet Heat and Tennessee Bob’s Hot Sauce. For visitors looking for something other than barbecue, Ana’s Treat, Pizza Mike, Carvel Ice Cream Truck and Caldonia Kitchen will also be serving food.

Music will take up a large part of the evening. Internationally known blues artist Selwyn Birchwood will headline the Main Stage, while The Derek Mack Band will bring a mix of Motown, rock and pop to the event.

The entertainment will extend beyond the main performance area. The Front Porch will serve as another music destination, featuring summertime selections from DJ Scoobz. Local business Rohi’s Readery will also offer a hand fan craft activity there.

Families with children will have their own area to explore. The Kids Play Pit will include Smokehouse Storybook, where children can dress up as barbecue characters, along with giant bubbles, face painting and inflatable attractions.

A giant inflatable slide will add another activity for younger visitors. Children can also take part in Pin the Tail on the Piggie and enjoy a “touch-a-truck” experience featuring a West Palm Beach Fire Department firetruck.

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The West Palm Beach Police Department Party Trailer will also be at the event, where officers will hand out popcorn and ice pops.

Another activity, called Stories from the Pit, will invite guests to share their favorite barbecue memories on a giant chalkboard. The activity is intended to add a personal touch to an event built around food, music and community traditions.

For adults interested in sampling craft beer, the event will offer a $20 Craft Beer Tasting experience. The ticket includes five craft beer samples and a souvenir tasting cup. Tickets can be purchased at the event or in advance.

A Brews Station will also offer craft beers from local South Florida breweries for those who want to purchase drinks separately.

There will also be a limited VIP experience in the Sunset Lounge. Tickets cost $50 per person, plus taxes and fees. The package includes two complimentary drink tickets, a special performance by Miami artist Kat Riggins, unlimited water and soda, air-conditioned space and restroom access.

VIP ticket holders will also be entered into a raffle for a chance to meet headliner Selwyn Birchwood.

City officials describe the event as more than a food festival, pointing to its role in bringing residents and visitors together in the Historic Northwest.

“BBQ, Brews and Blues is one of our most anticipated events of the year, and it’s a true celebration of the culture and community of the Historic Northwest,” said Angela Poco, Marketing and Community Events Manager for the City of West Palm Beach. “From the sizzle of the BBQ Throwdown to the soul of live blues, and the laughter of kids enjoying outdoor community fun, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.”

The City of West Palm Beach is producing the event. Sponsors to date include X102.3, 97.9 WRMF, WFTL 850, Fox Sports 640, Sunny 107.9, New Country 103.1, WPB Magazine, Cemex, T-Mobile Fiber and Chick-fil-A West Palm Beach.

Parking for the event will be available at the Judicial Center Surface Lot at 505 Banyan Boulevard. Rose’s Trolleys will provide shuttle service from the surface lot and neighboring streets, giving visitors another option for reaching the festival area.

With food competitions, live performances, children’s activities, craft beer and several contests packed into four hours, the 11th Annual BBQ, Brews and Blues is expected to bring a busy evening to Heart & Soul Park.

The event is free to attend, although food, drinks, the craft beer tasting and VIP experience are available for purchase. Organizers are encouraging residents and visitors to come hungry, stay for the entertainment and take part in what has become one of West Palm Beach’s established annual community celebrations.

More information about BBQ, Brews and Blues and other City of West Palm Beach community events is available through the city’s events information. Residents can also contact the city at (561) 822-1515, with TTY service available at 800-955-8771.