Jazz in the air, the smoky aroma of seasoned meats wafting under the summer sun, and craft beers that dance on your palate – it’s a scene straight out of a Southern dreamscape. But this festival isn’t nestled in the heart of Dixie, nor does it settle in the bustling boroughs of Texas. This magnificent feast finds its home in the idyllic cradle of the Pacific Northwest, drawing in food enthusiasts and beer aficionados from all corners. Welcome to BBQ, Blues & Brews on the Bay, an event that has etched itself as one of The Mill’s most illustrious celebrations, ingrained with the spirited heart of authentic barbecue flavor, soul-stirring blues, and ales that sing arias of their own. Saturday & Sunday, May 25 – 26, 2024
A Chronology of Smoky Success
This is no flash-in-the-pan festivity. Entering its 11th year, BBQ, Blues & Brews on the Bay has transformed from a community highlight to a regional culinary landmark. Its tale is one of progression and perseverance, starting with humble aspirations and ascending to remarkable heights.
Inaugural year struggles only served to ignite the fire beneath the organizers, as they pushed to meet the stringent requirements for Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) sanctioning. Teams trickled in from the Northwest, their numbers scraping the bare minimum, but their enthusiasm fanning the event’s flickering flame. Fast forward a decade, and the event now attracts competitors from a myriad of states, solidarity under the banner of mouthwatering barbecue.
This growth is a testament to the fervor of the Pacific Northwest’s barbecue community, a once-hidden treasure now drawing pitmasters and barbecue enthusiasts from afar. However, it isn’t just about the competition – it’s about camaraderie, sharing secrets of the smoke, and fostering a community united by a shared love for barbecued goodness.
Moe Cason
Among the constellation of stars that grace BBQ, Blues & Brews on the Bay, few shine as brightly as Moe Cason. A venerable pitmaster with a heart as generous as his portions, Moe’s reputation precedes him, renowned not just for his mastery over the flames but for the warmth and wisdom he shares so freely. From his humble beginnings to becoming a beloved figure on the competitive barbecue circuit, Moe embodies the spirit of barbecue — passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to craft. His participation in the festival not only elevates the competition; it enriches the communal experience, offering attendees a taste of true barbecue excellence, honed over years of practice and perfected out of a genuine love for the art.
Bridging the Smoky Gap
More than just a congregation of culinary delights, BBQ, Blues & Brews on the Bay serves as a bridge across the usual geographical boundaries. It’s a warm handshake that extends beyond state lines, uniting folks from a spectrum of communities under the unifying banner of shared pleasures.
The event is a testament to the unifying power of food, music, and craft, creating a space where diversity is celebrated, and commonalities are highlighted. International teams mingle with local legends, sharing tales and techniques, building a legacy of its own – one that doesn’t just belong to the Pacific Northwest but to the global community of barbecue enthusiasts.
This festival isn’t just a date marked on the calendar; it’s an institution, a reminder of the power of the palate to bridge cultures and create lasting memories. Each year, it beckons with the promise of new tastes, new tunes, and fresh friendships.
