Suncoast BBQ & Bluegrass Bash celebrates its 10th year in Venice

Barbecue competition takes center stage but there’s also International Bluegrass Music Association winners Flatt Lonesome, The Grascals and Lonesome River Band playing event at Venice Airport Festival Grounds.

Over the past 10 years, Suncoast BBQ & Bluegrass Bash has grown into one of Southwest Florida’s most popular community events with nearly 20,000 attending last year.

Organizers are expecting record crowds, since the bash has moved several weeks earlier on the crowded festival calendar. This Friday and Saturday, numerous seasonal visitors will be able to enjoy the festival for the first time at the Venice Airport Festival Grounds.

The barbecue competition sanctioned by the Florida BBQ Association takes center stage at the Venice Airport, but the free event also offers world-class bluegrass concerts, a chili cook-off for local chefs, a corn toss tournament and a classic car and truck show.

The Old Town Saloon at the fairgrounds offers craft beers and select spirits. Spectators can check out multiple exhibits, including public safety, vintage race cars and classic cars, trucks and tractors. A Kids Corral will offer activities for the youngsters and teams will compete in the annual corn toss tournament.

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