‘Revamped’ Smokin’ on Broadway will unfold July 15

It’s going to be a busy day in Imperial, Nebraska, July 15 when the chamber of commerce hosts the seventh annual Smokin’ on Broadway BBQ contest and concert at City Square.

A committee of chamber members is finalizing details for the event, which includes the BBQ contest return, said Shawn Jaeger, one of the committee members. It was called off last year.

 “We have revamped our beloved event this year by partnering with the Midwest Barbecue Association to host the smoking competition,” Jaeger said.

 That collaboration means a prize purse that has increased to $3,000, he said.

 Due to the MBA’s involvement, the committee anticipates 20 or more teams will be vying for the top prize.

 Committee member Matt Musgrove said registrations have just opened for the smokin’ contest, and he’s already received some. 

 This year, competitors will smoke brisket, pulled pork, ribs and bone-in chicken thighs, he said.

 While the smokers will be starting much earlier, public events kick off at 4 p.m. when the gates open and beer garden sales begin.

 That’s also the start time for a new event at Smokin’—the Chase County Challenge sponsored by the Imperial Community Foundation Fund.

 The Challenge is a new matching funds campaign offered by the Imperial Community Foundation Fund. Any donations made to eligible nonprofits during the 24-hour July 15 time frame will earn an added donation from the ICFF.

 The committee anticipates around 25 non-profit organizations being represented during the afternoon/evening of the event with booths set up on the grounds.

 A barbecue meal, which will include the contestants smoked meat, will be served from 6 to 8 p.m. at $10 a plate.

 The day will include a concert once again from 7 to 10 p.m. featuring CW & Twenty Hands High.

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