The Helen Ross McNabb Foundation is excited to host the Big BBQ Bash at Founder’s Square in historic downtown Maryville on June 24 and 25. The professional barbeque cook-off fundraiser was established as a legacy project by the Leadership Blount Class of 2007, and this marks its eighth year as a Kansas City Barbecue Society sanctioned competition.

Since its inception, the Big BBQ Bash has raised nearly $300,000, and all proceeds from the 2022 competition will benefit the McNabb Center’s Military Services program.

KCBS sanctions barbecue and grilling contests across theU.S. and advocates barbecue as America’s cuisine. Additionally, KCBS is the largest association of barbecue lovers worldwide and has a vast Certified Barbecue Judging program.

The Big BBQ Bash draws more than 30 teams from across the southeast to compete for $10,000 in cash, prizes, and, of course, bragging rights. Categories include pulled pork, ribs, brisket and chicken. Former governor Bill Haslamproclaimed the Big BBQ Bash as a state championship, qualifying the competition for the American Royal BarbecueCook-Off and Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational Barbecue.
Five competing teams will also sell their award-winning barbecue during the event on Friday evening and midday Saturday.

Individuals who want to support the Military Services program can text BBQ22 to 243-725 to donate. For additional event information, please visit www.mcnabbfoundation.org/BBQ.

The Big BBQ Bash is a part of Summer on Broadway, a free two-day festival with food and activities for the whole family. More information about Summer on Broadway is available atwww.summeronbroadway.net.