Downtown Hays Development Corporation

Big time BBQ fun returns to Hays June Friday and Saturday.

The seventh annual Fire on the Frontier BBQ Classic — formerly Blues, BBQ & Bargains — will feature BBQ, bands, and family fun all at the Municipal Park, 1st and Main.

Friday night, bring your appetite! Starting at 5 p.m., spectators and fans are invited to exchange BBQ Bucks for great BBQ cuisine exquisitely prepared by the participating teams. BBQ Bucks work just like cash and will be the only form of payment accepted by participants.

“What makes this event special is that it’s not just a contest for the teams that are competing,” Sabrina William, Event Co-Chair said. “If this event is one thing, it’s an eating event. It’s the perfect opportunity to try some of the best barbecue around.”

Friday night also boasts a beer garden, live music, children’s play area and prizes.

Someone will take home a Traeger BBQ Grill (Courtesy of Crawford Supply Co), Sushi for a Year (Courtesy of Sake 2 Me Sushi Rolls), Four Express Facials (Courtesy of Rejuvenations), Downtown Event Tickets (DHDC) and Cheesecake for a Month (Courtesy of Chestnut Street Kitchens). BBQ Bucks and Drawing Slips will be available in advance at the Hays Welcome Center, 2700 Vine, or at the park Friday night while supplies last.

Saturday is when the event really fires up! The park is closed to the public so the teams can focus on finishing their entries into four food categories: chicken, pork ribs, pork butt, and brisket. The BBQ contest awards ceremony will take place Saturday, June 13 at 3:30p.m.

This Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) sanctioned competition has one of the lowest entry fees on the BBQ competition circuit with only $150 per team and a great payout with over $8,000 in guaranteed prize money.

The Downtown Hays Development Corporation has organized this event each year with the help of hundreds of volunteers and sponsors and takes pride in running an top-quality competition year after year.

“This is a great event and the perfect competition for BBQ teams of all levels,” Sara Bloom Executive Director of DHDC said. “Whether you’re an old pro with lots of awards under your belt or a novice griller wanting to test your skills you should be at this competition.”

For more information, click HERE.