Falling off the bone: Lindsay’s rib cook-off another hit
Saturday’s warmth was welcomed in downtown Lindsay as the 9th annual rib cook-off packed the streets with hungry locals.
Over 25 teams competed in this year’s cookoff, vying for a chance to say they have the best ribs around.
With tickets at two dollars each, tasters walked up to a competitor’s booth and dropped a ticket in their container. In return, they were given a single rib to try.
A DJ switched beats and music rang out loudly, but it didn’t deafen the buzz of excitement that hung in the air as large groups of people walked from booth to booth tasting each rib, then chatting amongst themselves about how the cook-off teams did. Head nods accompanied satisfied smiles with each bite taken.
Amongst the competitors was Queenie’s BBQ, a team made up of nearly all women. Their tender ribs held a smoky flavor and left fingers and faces sticky from a sweet barbeque sauce that topped the meat.
“If this one doesn’t win, I will be surprised,” said Junior Lopez with a large smile, before taking another bite.
Rock-n-roll BBQ drew crowds in with their vivid logo, and offered tasters a sweet and spicy rib that could be topped off with a homemade sauce that tamed a bit of the spice. Giveaway prizes lined a trailer that held the speakers blaring music. Among the many prizes were a 65” 4K TV, various meat smokers, a Yeti ice chest and a PS4. Tickets were available for a chance to win these prizes, and participants were given the opportunity to stretch a roll of tickets out to the size of their wing span for $20.
The annual event provided endless opportunities for children to have fun too. Giant Jenga was
set up on either end of the street, as well as corn hole boards for the kids to play with. A handful of vendors were set up selling toys and jewelry.
Down the street from the DJ was a live band playing guitars and drums on a large Budweiser stage. Tables were set for those who wanted to eat their ribs while sitting or for those who just needed a break from walking.
While cups of beer were abundant, the Lindsay Chamber of Commerce was selling sodas and waters, as well as carne asada tacos. Lemonade
was also available to those who chose not to partake in consuming alcohol.
Cochino's Motorcycle Club had their own booth and wore t-shirts displaying their logo. Over 15 Harley Davidsons stood side-by-side, their chrome handlebars reflecting the bright afternoon sun.
With full stomachs and satisfied taste buds, tasters made their way to their cars to head home. Laughter and conversation continued to fill the air long after the cookoff came to a close.
The Lindsay annual rib cook-off is held on the first Saturday of November and is sponsored by Que'n For Kids.