WIU Family Day BBQ Competition

The Forgottonia Times™ Report

For the seventh year, the Western Illinois University Office of Student Engagement and the School of Agriculture are excited to bring back the annual Family Day BBQ Competition and Tasting! This event is a staple of the community, bringing together students, families, and alumni to have a day full of food, fun, and Leatherneck pride. There will be lots of activities for everyone to share and enjoy, with the day culminating in the Leathernecks football game at Hanson Field, with kickoff set for 6:00pm.

The day will begin with the BBQ Compeition and Tasting from 2:00-5:00pm, Saturday, September 13th in Q Lot at Western Illinois University. However, that’s not all! There will also be live musical entertainment from Newhouse Band, family-friendly activities for all ages, unique and local vendors, and a competitive bag tournament. But the main attraction of the day is a sizzling BBQ showdown for the title of Best BBQ, and a public tasting featuring brisket, ribs, and each team’s People's Choice specialty items! That’s something your taste buds won’t want to miss.

Nick Katz, director of Student Engagement at WIU, explains why the Family BBQ Day is now one of WIU’s most beloved traditions. “It’s an opportunity for our campus and community to come together and celebrate what makes Western so special — great food, great people and great Leatherneck spirit.” Bringing people together, sharing in Leathereck pride, and eating some incredible BBQ is what this day is all about. From awesome activities, to the best brisket you’ve ever tasted, the WIU Family BBQ Day has something that everyone will enjoy and food that everyone will love. You don’t want to miss this fun-filled, exciting, and delicious day.

Tickets and merchandise are available now at wiu.edu/familyday. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the website or contact the event team at pigout@wiu.edu.