Maryland BBQ Bash Heats Up in Bel Air

BEL AIR, MD — Barbecuers and musicians will flock to Bel Air this weekend for the MD State BBQ Bash, an event that drew a record crowd of 40,000 last summer.

The barbecue-themed street festival features BBQ contests for amateurs and pros, musical guests and vendors selling crafts, food and other goods. It is sponsored by the Bel Air Downtown Alliance.

With a heat advisory in effect for Harford County and much of the region, people spending time outside are advised to wear loose-fitting, light clothing and to stay hydrated.

Cost: Admission is free.

Hours: 4 to 10 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 12, and noon to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 13.

Location: 2 South Bond Street in Bel Air.

Parking: Parking is available in downtown Bel Air; see a map. There will also be a shuttle at Bel Air High School from 3:30–10:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 12, and 11:30 a.m.–10:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 13.

Competition: The MD State BBQ Tailgate Challenge will pit "backyard barbecuers" against one another.

In a separate competition, the MD State BBQ Championship draws more than 50 teams from the mid-Atlantic with hopes of winning $12,500 in cash prizes and the chance to go to the annual Jack Daniels World Championship Invitational Barbecue in Lynchburg, TN, and The American Royal in Kansas City, MO.

Musical Lineup:

Friday, Aug. 12
5 p.m. Southern Charm (country rock)
5–9 p.m. Roll Out the Barrel event (bourbon and cigar tasting)
8 p.m. Reagan Years ('80s tribute band)

Saturday, Aug. 13
2 p.m. Peterbuilt (country rock)
5 p.m. Walk-Ins Welcome (modern country)
7:30 p.m. Matt Gary (country)
8:45 p.m. Clare Dunn (country)

See pics from last year's bash.

Photo Credit: Patch File Photo.