IT'S BBQ, BABY. Barbecue lovers, it's your time to shine! This fall, BBQ Fest will make its debut in Chippewa Falls. (Local food truck Rollin Smoke BBQ pictured.)

While the summertime Northern Wisconsin State Fair is the gem of the Chippewa Falls fairgrounds, a new event is sure to attract crowds of foodies to the venue this fall: BBQ Fest. Announced on April 8, the first-time barbecue event will bring local and regional barbecue masters BBQ lovers alike together for some friendly competition, live music, and of course, lots of grub. 

Slated for Sept. 6, the fairgrounds will welcome BBQ Fest attendees for free, according to a recent media release. "We are excited to bring this new event to the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds," Rusty Volk, NWSF director, said. "The BBQ Fest is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the rich culinary backyard traditions of our community." 

While some details are still being ironed out, BBQ Fest's main features were announced: the Backyard Barbecue Competition, which will award one winner a cash prize; an artisan market; a beer tent and live music; and a corn hole tournament. The latter will include roughly 30 teams, with sign-up fees pooled for the winner's prize. 

The Backyard Barbecue Competition will feature three categories – chicken; ribs; and pork – plus a People's Choice prize. The friendly competition is open to any individual (food trucks cannot participate), with any type of grill or smoker allowed. 

Vendor and competition applications are now available online at www.nwsfa.com/bbqfest.

Learn more about BBQ Fest at www.nwsfa.com/bbqfest and follow the event's Facebook page for future updates and information.