Hampton’s Cruisin’ & BBQin’ Returns This Weekend

The Kansas City Barbecue Society competition returns to Hampton next Friday and Saturday, July 31 and Aug. 1, with more competitors, expanded entertainment and a larger backyard contest.

Organizer Charlane Janssen says 25 master barbecue teams from across the Midwest and beyond will compete for more than $10,000 in prize money during the sanctioned event, while 16 backyard teams will vie for $1,500 in prizes by preparing meats for certified judges.

Last year’s grand champion, James Wagner of Wags Backwoods BBQ in Osage, tells RadioOnTheGo News the welcoming small-town atmosphere made Hampton’s inaugural competition memorable.

“Oh, it’s a nice little contest,” Wagner says. “They vary in size all over the place. Some contests would be up to 100 teams and some are around 25 to 30 and they’re all great, and the little contests, local contests that we have around here, you get to know a lot of people. And it’s just like you’re just getting together camping with a bunch of your buddies every weekend.”

Activities will again be centered behind Family Dollar and the Access Inc. campus, with food vendors, community activities and live music throughout Saturday. Nolan Luther will perform from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by Chris Karr from 1 to 4 p.m. Janssen also says attendees can look forward to a ‘special surprise’ planned for after 2 p.m. Saturday.

Wagner, who has competed this year in Kansas City and Tennessee, says barbecue judges are looking for consistency in appearance and flavor, with every bite counting.

“They’re looking for a real well-balanced flavor,” Wagner says. “You know, a little sweetness, have a little spice to it. You know, it’s just something that really pops, you know, big flavors and grabs your attention. Throughout the week, usually I’m working on trimming up meats so that they’re prepared and ready to go for the weekend. Make sure I have the trailer stock with all the rubs and sauces that I need.”

Last year’s inaugural competition raised more than $3,500 for Access Inc., which provides the venue for the event.