Fourth Annual Nisqually Valley Barbecue Rally to Return in July

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Lovers of food and barbecue should mark their calendars for Saturday, July 22, as the fourth annual Nisqually Valley Barbecue Rally is set to return to Yelm City Park.

The event will run from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and will feature the delicious barbecue residents have been craving.

Amanda Muñoz, the executive director of the Yelm Chamber of Commerce, said there’s an overall feeling of excitement as the popular event draws closer.

“It’s going to be amazing,” Muñoz said. “We have a lot of things planned, including the amateur competition again. We have quite a few people entered and we’re excited to see how it’s shaping up.”

The Nisqually Valley Barbecue Rally will also feature a “youth burger challenge.” Participants who range in age from 10 to 17 will try to make the best burger possible. The first place winner of the challenge will receive $300, while second place will receive $150. The third place finisher will get $50.

“We’re pretty excited about that one because it’s something to bring the kids in and give them a competitive piece, too,” Muñoz said. “It’s going to be cool for a couple of kids. I don’t think it will be a huge competition either. I believe we have 10 spots for it. It shouldn’t be too overwhelming.”

While youth can compete in the burger challenge, older pit-masters can take part in the “Amateur Andy’s” competition. Registration for the amateur barbecue competition costs $50 and each team must feature one to four members, who are older than 18.

The competitor’s space is 10 feet by 10 feet. Each team must provide their own equipment for the event. Those participating in the Amateur Andy’s competition can check in the day prior to the event between 3 and 7 p.m., or at 6 a.m. on July 22. Competitors must arrive no later than 9 a.m.

Competitors are not permitted to sell or distribute food to attendees at the barbecue rally. The food will be provided to the judges. 

There are four separate categories for Amateur Andy’s participants, which includes beef brisket, pork ribs, chicken and pork shoulder. All meat must be cooked on site. There is a minimum of six, separate and identifiable food portions that will need to be submitted. 



There are three elements of evaluation for the food presented by the Amateur Andy’s teams. The elements include appearance, tenderness and texture, and taste.

The award ceremony for the Amateur Andy’s winners will take place at 4 p.m. They include first, second and third place awards for beef brisket, pork ribs, chicken and pork shoulder. A grand champion and reserve champion will also be crowned.

In addition to the Amateur Andy’s and youth burger competitions, the traditional pie eating contest will return this year. The contest is open to both children and adults. 

Muñoz said adults over the age of 21 will be able to enjoy a beer garden on site, which is sponsored by the 507 Tap Room and Uptown Lounge. She described the beer garden as a popular hit at the event.

Northwest Chevrolet will be the event’s Pit Master sponsors. Muñoz said they sponsor the stage setup for the scheduled live music performances. The list of music acts include Clown Fish, Morning After, The Lemmings and Dakota Poorman.

“A couple of these acts are returning. They were fan favorites,” Muñoz said. “Their music is very upbeat, fun music. It’s family-friendly and really great for the atmosphere.”

There will also be a good selection of food trucks on site, according to the Muñoz. She said Hobos Barbecue, Jerk an’ Tingz, Steele Barrel Barbecue, Tin Hut Barbecue, Comfort Food Cafe and Snack Bar, Kona Ice, Bouche’s Sweet Things and Worthy Coffee will attend.

“Everybody is really pumped up and ready to go. We’re all ready for it and we’re very excited. We’re looking forward to the event being bigger and better. The committee is always looking to grow this event and help it become something bigger than what it already is,” Muñoz said. “We’re moving forward with this in such an awesome way and I’m excited to see the turnout. We’re definitely excited for the event and this is going to be a really fun time.”

The Yelm Chamber of Commerce will host a “prefunk” event at 5 p.m. on Friday, July 21, at the Yelm Community Center to celebrate the upcoming barbecue rally.

Those with children who are interested in registering for the youth burger challenge can sign up at the chamber’s website at yelmchamber.com or can email info@yelmchamber.com.