By Matt Nielsen, two-time Grand Champ
On Saturday, Sept. 24, the Lake Bluff Barbeque Society will host its annual, all-day RibFest competition on the Village Green in Lake Bluff.
This annual event brings out the most committed barbecue enthusiasts to strut their stuff in this rib-only barbecue competition. No need to travel south of the Mason-Dixon line to enjoy mouth watering tastings from the 20 teams (while supplies last) and warm and gracious hospitality in downtown Lake Bluff. Founded in 2002 by the Backyard BBQ, RibFest has quickly grown into the richest barbecue competition on the Lake Bluff circuit.
For more information and the Lake Bluff Barbeque Society 2011 Rules and Regulations please contact Matt Nielsen at mattn@nielsenmassey.com.
The Grand Champion is rewarded with a larger-than-life trophy, First Place ribbon and bottle of champagne. Second through Fifth Place teams all receive ribbons as does the People’s Choice Recipient. In addition, showmanship recognition is given to that team that best decorates their cooking space.
Past Grand Champions have been:
- 2010 – Big Pig Little Pig
- 2009 — Smokey & The Pit Crew
- 2008 — Smokey & The Pit Crew
- 2007 — Black Pig
- 2006 — Rich Group
- 2005 – Team International
- 2004 — One Rib
- 2003 — Can/Am Ham
- 2002 — Hebson Group
The People’s Choice award is given to that team which generates the most votes by the attending public. Each vote is collected by an independent authority and costs $1.00. All proceeds are donated to the Shields Township Food Pantry. The winner in 2010 was The Circle Jerks and the Lake Bluff Barbeque Society was proud to provide a whopping $2,550 in total donations to the Shields Township Food Pantry.
The Showmanship Award is given to the team that best shows their barbecue and team spirit by decorating their cooking space. The 2010 award was given to Smokey and the Pit Crew.
