The best pitmasters will go head to head in the Great Hope Mills BBQ Throwdown on Thursday, July 2, hosted by the Hope Mills Parks & Recreation Department. Get ready to chow down at your new favorite annual event. This brand-new competition is part of the Independence Day celebrations that will be happening through the latter part of June and into July, marking the milestone of America’s 250th anniversary.

The barbecue competition will be held indoors in the Town of Hope Mills Recreation Center gymnasium at 5766 Rockfish Road, allowing attendees to kick back and enjoy great food without braving the heat. The event starts at 11 a.m. and ends at 2 p.m., giving residents plenty of time to taste-test the food and cast their votes for the ultimate Hope Mills Pitmaster Champion.

Brandon McLean, Programs Coordinator for Hope Mills Parks & Recreation, states that launching this competition came from the motivation to offer community members different ways to bond over a good meal. 

“I like to try new and different things,” McLean said. “When I first came on, I wanted to revamp everything.” 

Many sit-down luncheons have been held for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, but this year’s grilling competition adds something special to the Throwdown. 

“I know a lot of people are great grillmasters and can cook, so we wanted to bring that talent here that’s in Hope Mills and promote that,” McLean said.

Only 100 tickets are available at $30 each; 70 have already been sold, so residents looking to attend should act fast to secure their spots. Adults 55 and older can secure half-price tickets at $15. Other discounts may be available upon request; residents are encouraged to reach out to McLean at 910-426-4061 or drop by the Recreation Center for more information.

Buying a ticket allows attendees to throw down on tasty barbecue chicken made by five elite pitmasters. During ticket registration, residents can also pick from their choice of side dishes, desserts and other meat options, such as hamburgers or hot dogs. Classic Southern favorites like banana pudding and macaroni and cheese bring together an unforgettable feast.

The winning competitor will enjoy souvenirs and bragging rights as having the best barbecue chicken in town, and they will receive recognition on the Hope Mills Parks & Recreation Department’s social media platforms. Potential rewards may increase at future Throwdowns. 

“One of the things that I’m looking to do is promote them here in the Town of Hope Mills Recreation Center,” McLean said. “So, my goal is to have their picture up on the wall along with the different trophies we have with our sports.”

Don’t forget to bring your best dancing shoes along with an empty stomach. Spotlight Entertainment LLC, known and celebrated for their DJ services and Mirror Photo Booth experiences, will be spinning tracks to get everyone moving on the dance floor. According to McLean, the business has become a staple vendor for the Recreation Center due to their phenomenal party services.

As the first of its kind, this Throwdown offers community fellowship and patriotic fun by connecting Hope Mills residents and visitors through two of the most enjoyable things in life — music and food. Plus, friendly competition keeps the interest going and the energy high. 

“This added element of the specific competition is something that I’m looking forward to, as well as the members of the public,” McLean said.

To register for a ticket, visit the Hope Mills Parks & Recreation Special Events page: https://secure.rec1.com/NC/hope-mills-nc/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTQxNTIwNzA=