Bourbon’s BBQ Fest Deemed Success

The Bourbon Economic Development Group brought back its BBQ Festival on June 10 and president Chuck Ray said it was a success.

BED had to abruptly cancel the 2022 event.

“This year’s BBQ event was enjoyed by all,” said Ray, who believes the difference is having a dedicated person to manage the event. 

BED received “generous levels” of sponsorships and were able to pay out nearly $4,000 to the winning contestants.

Turnout exceeded previous festival events, Ray said. BED held the first event — a pork steak cook-off — in 2017.

Eight teams from beyond just Crawford County hauled in their smokers to cook the best chicken, ribs and pork steaks.

BED also had more than 10 vendors set up to sell various items. 

“Almost all vendors were sure they would be returning next year,” Ray said.

The Town Tavern put up a beer garden behind Via’s Pizza. The Brenton Sterling Band and Cathy Schoonveld provided live music and Josh Hess sold pulled pork sandwiches, hot dogs and sides. 

With booze, music and good food, it made for an enjoyable day in downtown Bourbon.

“We heard and read social media posts from the contestants that they thought highly of the event and enjoyed their trip to our community," Ray said.