For once, the scent in the air won't be the stinky Potomac River. Instead, breathe in deeply as you head toward the Safeway National Capital Barbecue Battle (Pennsylvania Ave. NW between 9th and 14th).
The deliciousness kicks off Saturday at 11 a.m. and continues through Sunday evening, dishing up samples from some of the best barbecue chef teams in the world at the Safeway Sampling Pavilion. Mix and mingle with people who love to barbecue, and exchange recipes and ideas on the art of barbecue.
If you think you can 'cue it up with the best of them -- we know we can't; that's why we just eat -- then enter the $40,000 cash prize barbecue battle. Culinary teams will compete in contests such as the Ranchers' Reserve Beef Barbecue Championship, DC Lottery Barbecue Challenge, the National Championship and the Chinet People's Choice Contest.
In addition to the great food, you can also catch great performances from acts like Chuck Brown (go-go), SOJA (rock), Marcus Johnson (smooth jazz), and Clarence Turner (blues). See the full list of performers here.
If you have little ones, bring 'em along for activities like the NBA Tour Nation, Disney's Ratatouille Tour and a rock-climbing wall. The event benefits the Metropolitan Police Boys & Girls Club.
Saturday, June 27, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Sunday, June 28, 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
Adults $10; kids $5
Two-day pass $18
