BBQ BONANZA COMES TO OC!

By Sheryll Alexander

Orange County isn’t usually known for its barbecue, so now’s the time to attend OC’s first Texas-sized barbecue feast: The Orange County BBQ Bonanza.

Held Aug. 18-21 at Fountain Valley Sports Park (16400 Brookhurst St.), this festival to all things barbecue boasts some of America’s best barbecue chefs as well as juicy ribs, grilled meats, savory and refreshing summer sides, non-stop live country music, a children’s area, artisan exhibits, a sports tent and beer and wine cantinas.

Really hungry? The “VIP Rib Village experience” features endless ribs, sides, drinks and desserts as well as priority seating.

OC BBQ Bonanza Schedule

Thursday, August 18: 5-10 p.m.
Friday, August 19: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Saturday, August 20: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Sunday, August 21: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Tickets & Ribs

One-day general admission: $5 for adults (includes free souvenir e-photo and a $2 off coupon for any sampler plate). Children 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult.

All active United States military personnel (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, National Guard and Reservists) receive free general admission (valid military identification required).

VIP Rib Village (see hours below) costs $100 per ticket (18 years and up only) and includes general admission, VIP designated table seating, service and all-you-can-eat ribs, salads, sides, desserts and drinks (beer, wine and sodas). Or, buy an entire VIP Rib Village table for $900 (10 seats per table).

VIP Rib Village Hours

Thursday and Friday: 5-9 p.m.

Saturday: 4-9 p.m.

Sunday: Noon-5 p.m.

Sheryll Alexander runs a news media agency based in Costa Mesa, California. Follow her! @sheryllalexande