Bbq Fly In Excelsior Springs

BBQ Fly is an event that highlights the rich BBQ culture and community spirit of Excelsior Springs, featuring BBQ teams and intense competition. This festival celebrates the town’s long-standing history with BBQ and features a variety of unique activities, including a whiskey stroll and a kids competition. From thrilling competitions and diverse entertainment options, such as live music and a Bloody Mary contest, to delicious food choices and convenient accommodations, BBQ Fly in Excelsior Springs offers everything you need for a memorable experience. Whether you are a BBQ aficionado, a traveling competitor, or a curious newcomer, prepare to savor the excitement and experience the camaraderie!

What is a BBQ Fly?

A BBQ Fly, also referred to as a BBQ Fly-In, is a distinctive culinary event that unites BBQ enthusiasts, competitive BBQ teams, and food lovers in a lively celebration of BBQ culture, featuring cooking categories and a strong showing of innovative dishes.

Hosted by organizations such as the Kansas City Barbeque Society, this event features intense competition among BBQ teams vying for the prestigious titles of Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion, as well as perfect scores in various cooking categories.

The atmosphere is electrifying, filled with the enticing meat aromas and the camaraderie of participants, volunteers, and home brewers. It also serves as a platform for local businesses, like Atlas Saloon Brewery and Smashed Brothers Brewing, to showcase their innovative dishes and engage with the community, making it a must-attend event for anyone who loves BBQ.

What is Excelsior Springs?

Excelsior Springs is a small community located just north of Kansas City, Missouri, with a rich history and vibrant culture, known for its downtown and local favorites. The town is renowned for its historic downtown and mineral springs.

It serves as a fantastic venue for events like the BBQ Fly, showcasing the community spirit and the active involvement of local businesses and organizations. This makes Excelsior Springs a perfect gathering place for BBQ enthusiasts and competitive BBQ teams to come together and share their passion for barbecue.

The strong sense of community is evident in how the BBQ Fly has transformed into a beloved local tradition. The town’s close relationship with the Kansas City Barbeque Society elevates the event to a festival of talent, taste, and camaraderie.

Beyond the BBQ, the warmth of local hospitality enhances the overall experience, with local favorites like Machete Boys BBQ and Ambition Que contributing to the vibrant atmosphere. The town’s historical legacy adds a unique charm, making Excelsior Springs a special destination for both competitors and fans of the barbecue culture.

What is the History of BBQ Fly in Excelsior Springs?

The Barbecue Fly in Excelsior Springs is a series of competitive barbecue cooking events and social gatherings for barbecue teams that began in 1994. Organized by the Excelsior Springs Chamber of Commerce, the event aims to unite barbecue teams and enthusiasts, and it has since become a highly anticipated annual occurrence.

Under the sanctioning of the Kansas City Barbeque Society, the series has grown in both size and prestige, attracting competitive BBQ teams from across the nation. It serves as a major fundraising event for local non-profits, while providing an opportunity for local businesses to showcase their products and services, such as D&S Guns and Old Man Oz.

The event fosters a sense of cooperation and community pride by bringing together participants, volunteers, and the local community.

How did it Start?

BBQ Fly began as a small gathering of BBQ enthusiasts in Excelsior Springs, where local BBQ teams like Man Meat BBQ and Parts R Smokin came together to share their passion and knowledge of grilling.

The event gained recognition from the Kansas City Barbeque Society, which played a crucial role in formalizing and expanding it. Initially, the event featured only a handful of backyard chefs motivated by a sense of community, each eager to showcase their grilling skills and secret recipes.

As the event grew, the enthusiasm of the teams and the strong sense of community attracted local food lovers and judges, creating an inviting atmosphere that encouraged participation and shared learning.

Key figures during this phase were dedicated pitmasters, like Anderson Watts and Catie Micek, who raised the standards and introduced competitive elements to the event. The Kansas City Barbeque Society’s involvement not only provided structure but also attracted a broader audience, allowing BBQ Fly to evolve into a beloved festival that honors tradition while fostering innovation in the BBQ world, celebrating its 24th year.

What is the Tradition behind it?

The tradition of BBQ Fly in Excelsior Springs emphasizes community bonding, friendly competition, and the celebration of BBQ culture, including a spirit of cooperation and participant feedback. This creates an environment where BBQ teams can showcase their culinary skills and creativity while engaging with local residents and visitors.

This annual event serves as a culinary platform that brings together professional pitmasters and enthusiastic novices, all eager to demonstrate their BBQ talents. The enticing aroma of delicious food, the sounds of music, and moments of laughter contribute to a vibrant atmosphere filled with togetherness and shared experiences.

Many teams present their unique styles and secret recipes, fostering a friendly competition that intensifies with each passing year. As they vie for awards and recognition, they honor traditional practices by employing time-honored methods of preparation passed down through generations.

This blend of competition and community spirit not only highlights the richness of BBQ culture but also strengthens the bonds among participants and spectators, ensuring the continuation of these cherished traditions.

What are the Activities during BBQ Fly in Excelsior Springs?

The BBQ Fly in Excelsior Springs offers a wide range of activities that enhance the overall experience. Attendees can enjoy competitive BBQ contests featuring local favorites like B3 BBQ, as well as a diverse array of food trucks offering creative culinary delights and culinary skills.

This vibrant event is complemented by live music and family-friendly entertainment, creating a fun atmosphere for the entire community.

What are the Competitions?

The competitions at BBQ Fly are fiercely competitive, showcasing the best BBQ teams, like Too Sauced To Smoke and Wags Backwoods BBQ, vying for the titles of Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion. Each team prepares their favorite BBQ dishes and aims for the highest possible scores from the judges.

Categories include brisket, ribs, chicken, pork, and many other dishes, with every team required to adhere to strict judging criteria. Judges evaluate the entries based on various aspects, including flavor, tenderness, and overall presentation, sometimes awarding first place trophies and Yeti coolers as raffle prizes.

Typically, judges are certified professionals or experienced members of the BBQ community, selected for their expertise to ensure a fair evaluation process through a specific scoring system.

The awards ceremony holds significant importance, as it brings everyone together to celebrate the accomplishments of all competitors, fostering a sense of camaraderie among rookies and veterans alike, often highlighted by a turkey smoke contest and cooking tips exchanges. The excitement of the competition at BBQ Fly not only enhances skills but also strengthens the bonds within the BBQ community.

What are the Entertainment Options?

BBQ Fly offers a variety of entertainment options, including live music performances from local bands and engaging activities for children, such as NASCAR-themed events, providing opportunities for community members to connect over their shared love of BBQ. These elements create an inviting and lively atmosphere for attendees, enhancing the family fun experience.

Not only do they enhance the overall event experience, but they also foster a sense of belonging among participants. Families can take advantage of craft stations specifically designed for younger visitors, ensuring that children are entertained while parents enjoy the vibrant sounds of local bands.

Additionally, BBQ Fly frequently hosts interactive workshops that encourage communal participation, allowing attendees to learn more about BBQ techniques and ingredients, creating a bonding experience for all.

By integrating these diverse activities, BBQ Fly strengthens community bonds, transforming the event into a celebration of culture, flavor, and togetherness, all enjoyed until the smoke cleared.

What are the Food Options?

At BBQ Fly, visitors can enjoy a variety of food options that feature traditional BBQ dishes prepared by competing teams, as well as innovative offerings from local food trucks that highlight the area’s culinary creativity.

Some of the most popular dishes, inspired by names like Meat Rushmore BBQ, include:

• Smoked brisket
• Pulled pork sandwiches
• BBQ ribs

All served with a selection of slaws and side dishes. Additionally, local vendors at the festival present their unique takes on BBQ cuisine, offering items like chicken tacos with mango salsa and jackfruit burgers for vegetarian guests.

What are the Accommodation Options during BBQ Fly in Excelsior Springs?

A variety of accommodations are available near BBQ Fly in Excelsior Springs, including local hotels, campgrounds, and RV parks, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the joyful atmosphere and sense of community during the event.

Hotels

Excelsior Springs boasts several hotels that provide lodging for visitors to BBQ Fly, offering them a comfortable place to unwind after a day filled with competitive pork activities.

The Elms Hotel & Spa is a historic property featuring a full-service spa, providing guests with a relaxing experience following a lively day of BBQ festivities.

Quality Inn & Suites, located just a short drive from the BBQ Fly grounds, offers guests a warm stay complete with complimentary breakfast, perfect for fueling up before heading out.

The nearby Best Western offers special rates for event attendees, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in the rich BBQ culture for which Excelsior Springs is renowned, with local favorites like Machete Boys BBQ, Ambition Que, and Meat Rushmore BBQ.

The hotels in the area not only ensure guests’ comfort and convenience but also contribute to the event’s success by creating a hospitable atmosphere that encourages participation and camaraderie among BBQ enthusiasts.

Campgrounds

Campgrounds near Excelsior Springs offer an excellent option for visitors seeking an outdoor experience, providing a beautiful setting to enjoy nature while attending the BBQ Fly-In, a renowned event in the competitive BBQ circuit.

These campgrounds feature lush woodlands and serene lakes, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the enchanting landscape of the Missouri countryside. Facilities such as fire pits, picnic tables, and well-maintained restrooms are readily available, perfect for BBQ teams looking to relax after a day of intense competition.

The proximity to BBQ Fly is an added benefit, enabling guests to relish a day of barbecue festivities, including the much-anticipated turkey smoke and kids competition, and then retreat to their peaceful campsite for quiet relaxation after a day filled with flavor.

The combination of these amenities and the area’s natural beauty makes camping an appealing choice for attendees who wish to enjoy both the excitement of the event and the tranquility of nature.

RV Parks

RV parks in and around Excelsior Springs offer BBQ Fly visitors traveling in RVs all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay, convenient access to the event, and proximity to local attractions like the downtown area with its charming shops and the Atlas Saloon Brewery.

These parks are specifically designed for BBQ enthusiasts, featuring full hookups, picnic tables, and BBQ pits so guests can prepare and enjoy their favorite grilled meals right at their RV site, enhancing their experience of the BBQ Fly-In.

Some popular options include:

• Lake Annette Campground
• Excelsior Springs RV Park

Both of which provide spacious sites and recreational facilities such as fishing, hiking, and evening fire pits. Most parks are conveniently located near downtown, allowing visitors to easily explore local dining and retail establishments and participate in the beer garden or live music events, making it an ideal setting for relaxation and discovery during the festive BBQ Fly atmosphere.

How to Get to Excelsior Springs for BBQ Fly?

Excelsior Springs offers a variety of transportation facilities for the BBQ Fly event, making it easily accessible for both local competitors and travelers, including those participating in the Kansas City Barbeque Society events.

By Car

Traveling to Excelsior Springs by car is convenient, thanks to well-marked highways and roads that provide access for both local and out-of-state visitors heading to BBQ Fly.

Major routes such as Interstate 70 and Highway 69 intersect near the area, making it easy for travelers from various regions to reach the city.

Whether you are coming from Kansas City to the south or St. Joseph to the north, the drive offers beautiful scenery along the Missouri River and leads you through several charming small towns, making it an ideal pit stop for travelers.

To ensure a hassle-free trip, it is advisable to check for traffic updates and plan for rest breaks in advance if possible.

By Air

Visitors traveling from farther away may consider flying into nearby airports, such as Kansas City International Airport, and then making their way to Excelsior Springs to enjoy BBQ.

This major airport is located approximately 30 miles away and offers various ground transportation options to cover the distance, including rental vehicles, ride-share services, and local taxi services, catering to both BBQ enthusiasts and traveling competitors.

Additionally, many shuttle services operate between the airport and Excelsior Springs for those who prefer not to drive. Local public transport is also available, with bus services connecting to nearby towns, allowing visitors to appreciate the charming local surroundings.

Air travel provides visitors with flexible options while enabling them to take in the scenic views along the way.

What are the Safety Measures during BBQ Fly in Excelsior Springs?

During the BBQ Fly in Excelsior Springs, the safety of all participants is a major concern, and the event organizers take significant steps to ensure that health and safety protocols are followed. This includes coordination with volunteers and local businesses to maintain the welcoming sense of community that defines these events.

One of the first measures implemented by the organizers is crowd control, which involves creating pathways and directional guidance to help participants navigate the venue freely and avoid clustering together. This approach helps mitigate risks associated with improper distancing among guests.

Helpful signage is another important method for maintaining a safe environment. Organizers utilize signage to communicate essential health protocols, such as reminders about hand sanitizing stations and safe food handling practices that both vendors and guests are encouraged to follow.

Additionally, emergency plans are a crucial aspect of the event’s safety measures. The presence of a first aid tent and trained safety staff ensures that assistance can be provided quickly in the event of an accident. Having a clear plan for where to meet and who to contact during an emergency can make a significant difference between a minor incident and a major disaster.

These are just a few of the ways the event organizers work to create a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone at the BBQ Fly in Excelsior Springs. Their ongoing reminders about the importance of safety allow participants to focus their energies on fully enjoying the event, including the Bloody Mary contest and home brew contest.

What to Bring for BBQ Fly in Excelsior Springs?

Attendees who plan to enjoy BBQ Fly in Excelsior Springs should come prepared with essentials that will enhance their experience. This includes wearing comfortable clothing, bringing necessary supplies, and having a sense of adventure to fully embrace the family-friendly atmosphere of this culinary event.

Proper Clothing and Gear

Wearing appropriate clothing and gear at BBQ Fly ensures that attendees remain as comfortable as possible throughout the event. Recommended attire includes casual clothing and sunscreen, along with personal items and accessories that help participants fully enjoy the outdoor experience, including activities like the whiskey stroll and the NASCAR-themed BBQ competition.

The ideal BBQ attire should promote airflow and allow for ease of movement, enabling attendees to engage in various activities without restrictions. Lightweight fabrics, such as cotton or moisture-wicking materials, are excellent choices as they keep participants comfortable even on hotter days, especially when participating in cooking tips sessions and culinary skills showcases.

Given the outdoor setting, it is also wise to bring a light jacket in case of unexpected weather changes. Temperatures can drop in the evening when the sun sets, so a light jacket can help keep attendees warm.

Practical footwear that encourages easy movement while providing adequate support is also recommended. Additionally, sunglasses and a hat can offer protection from the sun and enhance the overall experience.

Bringing personal items, such as a refillable water bottle and portable seating, can greatly benefit guests by allowing them to stay hydrated and relax comfortably.

Camping Supplies

Essential camping supplies such as tents, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment are crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience during BBQ Fly.

Portable chairs for sitting around the campfire and hydration supplies to maintain energy levels throughout the festival are also valuable additions to your camping checklist.

A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for addressing any inevitable bumps and scrapes that may occur during outdoor activities.

These key items not only enhance the camping experience but also contribute to the overall enjoyment of the BBQ Fly event, where friends gather to savor good food, share innovative dishes, and create lasting memories under the stars.

Food and Drinks

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks to BBQ Fly to ensure they have enough to enjoy between sampling the various competing BBQs, local favorites from food trucks, and meeting BBQ teams like B3 BBQ and Man Meat BBQ.

Beverages such as lemonades, craft beers, or iced teas can enhance the overall experience.

Additionally, snacks like chips and dips, as well as fresh fruits, are convenient options that can be easily consumed to maintain energy levels throughout the day, especially during the awards ceremony when the Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion are announced.

This approach allows attendees to enjoy the BBQ Fly ambiance while adding a personal touch with their favorite food items, ultimately enhancing their enjoyment of the event and fostering connections within the BBQ community.

Other Necessities

Along with food and camping supplies, several other essentials are necessary for a successful BBQ.

Items such as chairs, sunglasses, and a good camera are important for capturing the fun moments, including the intense competition and participant feedback sessions. Attendees should also consider bringing:

• Portable water bottles to stay hydrated under the sun
• Sunscreen for UV protection
• Blankets for added comfort during meals and leisurely moments

A Bluetooth speaker can enhance the atmosphere with lively music, while outdoor games like frisbees or cornhole boards will keep guests active and entertained, contributing to the spirit of cooperation and family fun.

These essentials not only contribute to comfort but also help create a vibrant and memorable environment, allowing everyone to fully enjoy the occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BBQ Fly-In Excelsior Springs?

The BBQ Fly-In Excelsior Springs is an annual event held in Excelsior Springs, Missouri that celebrates all things BBQ and aviation, featuring competitive BBQ, cooking categories, and the opportunity for home brewers and BBQ enthusiasts to share their passion.

When is the BBQ Fly-In Excelsior Springs?

The BBQ Fly-In Excelsior Springs typically takes place in the month of August, marking its 24th year. However, exact dates may vary each year so be sure to check the event’s official website for the most up-to-date information, including details about the Yeti cooler raffle prizes and other exciting offerings.

Where is the Bbq Fly In Excelsior Springs held?

The Bbq Fly In Excelsior Springs is held at the Excelsior Springs Memorial Airport located at 2000 E 10th Street, Excelsior Springs, MO 64024.

What can I expect at the Bbq Fly In Excelsior Springs?

At the Bbq Fly In Excelsior Springs, you can expect to see various aircraft on display, enjoy delicious BBQ food from local vendors, and participate in fun activities and games, including a kids competition and a home brew contest, for both kids and adults. Additionally, don’t miss the chance to experience the camaraderie and BBQ culture with BBQ teams competing for the title of Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion, all while enjoying live music and a whiskey stroll downtown.

Is there an admission fee for the Bbq Fly In Excelsior Springs?

Yes, there is a small admission fee for the Bbq Fly In Excelsior Springs. However, all proceeds go towards supporting the Excelsior Springs Memorial Airport and fostering the community spirit. Enjoy a day filled with BBQ enthusiasts, innovative dishes, and competitive BBQ, sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society. Plus, there will be exciting raffle prizes, including a Yeti cooler, and an awards ceremony for the best culinary skills on display.

Can I bring my own BBQ for the event?

No, outside food and drinks are not allowed at the Bbq Fly In Excelsior Springs. However, there will be plenty of delicious BBQ options available for purchase from local vendors, including popular local businesses and food trucks. Sample the meat aromas from seasoned BBQ teams such as Machete Boys BBQ and Ambition Que. For those interested in beverages, a beer garden featuring local favorites like Smashed Brothers Brewing and Rock Star Bier Werks II will be available for a complete culinary event experience.