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TRYON—The Tryon Downtown Development Association has just announced its latest event for downtown, the Barbecue Beatdown.

This free-to-enter contest is scheduled for Saturday, September 21, on McCown Street. It will continue the long lineage of BBQ competitions in the area and will be conducted under Kansas City barbecue competition rules, but it will not be a sanctioned event. 

The Barbecue Beatdown will allow smokers to set up as early as 6 a.m. to prepare for an epic showdown of flavors and culinary expertise. The tasting extravaganza will take place from 4 to 6 p.m., allowing attendees to savor mouthwatering BBQ creations and vote for their top picks. 

Votes will cost one dollar apiece, and all proceeds will go to the TDDA and the Tryon Fire Alliance. The winner will be awarded a championship belt that is themed to the event. 

Competitors must act fast to secure their spots, as limited spaces are available. 

There will be room for five chicken entries, ten pork entries, five beef entries, and five other categories, including lamb, vegetarian, seafood, and more. Early sign-ups are encouraged to guarantee participation in this sizzling showdown of culinary prowess.

For those with a penchant for competitive cooking but not a barbecue master, the cornbread cookoff will also occur on Tryon Plaza. This offers a unique opportunity to showcase culinary talents in a different arena, inspiring creativity and a tasty side to go with all the BBQ. The winner will receive the “Inter-Corn-tinental” Championship belt. 

Wrestling fans and costume lovers are encouraged to dress as their favorite wrestlers. This is a chance for attendees to unleash their inner pro wrestler and add an extra layer of excitement to the event.

The event promises thrills, flavors, and friendly competition that will surely leave taste buds tingling and hearts racing. The event is sponsored by the Tryon Bottle and its owner, Della Pullara. 

To register, visit downtowntryon.org.