Henderson to host its first Cowboy BBQ cookoff festival

Henderson is inviting national and local grillers to compete in its inaugural Cowboy BBQ cook-off.

The city plans to host the festival from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday at the Henderson Events Plaza, 200 S. Water St. Admission is free.

Roy Hassett, president of O Entertainment, said he had been trying to bring the event to the Las Vegas area when the doors to Henderson opened up.

The company has done events in California, Nevada and Arizona for about 35 years, Hassett said. It has put on barbecue festivals in various California cities.

"(The festival) has the best product in the rib category in the country," Hassett said. "It's just an enjoyable experience."

Bud Pico, manager of the city's cultural arts and tourism programs, said the advisory board for the cultural arts and tourism department and members of the Water Street District Business Association wanted to have some type of barbecue festival.

"These events typically bring in a lot of people," Pico said. "We spoke with several different event producers."

O Entertainment was recommended by a member of the Henderson Chamber of Commerce.

The main attraction is a grilling contest, where contestants compete to see who has the best barbecue. Invited competitors include national professionals and local amateurs.

"(The national professionals) are the best rib-cooking teams in the nation," Hassett said.

Hassett said there are three categories: professional, local amateurs and people's choice.

"We will have a panel of judges," Hassett said. "They will be given an unmarked plate of food."

From there, the panel decides which plate is the best. Judging is slated to take place at 2 p.m. Saturday.

Pico said they are still solidifying judges but have extended invitations to Mayor Andy Hafen and the City Council, Police Chief Patrick Moers and Fire Chief Steve Goble.

In addition, people can vote for their favorite barbecue.

For the true foodie, Hassett said, there will be a VIP rib village for $75. People can enjoy four hours of all-you-can eat sampling.

Pico said the city estimates that 10,000 to 15,000 people will attend.

"That is a conservative number," Pico said. "

Hassett said he expects the event to draw crowds from out of state.

In addition to barbecue, the event is expected to feature a carnival, retail vendors and entertainment. Country musician Jon Pardi is scheduled to play at 8 p.m. Saturday.

Pardi said he was sold on the idea of playing when he heard the name of the event.

Growing up in Northern California, Pardi's parents would play country music, which became Pardi's inspiration.

"I started playing guitar by the time I was 9," Pardi said. "I was writing songs by 12 and had a band by 14."

When he was 18, Pardi moved to Nashville, Tenn., to pursue a music career.

"It's a lot of meeting people," Pardi said, "shaking hands, kissing babies."

While making industry contacts, he continued to write music, eventually signing with Capitol Records.

"My mom started crying when she found out," Pardi said.

Pardi has been touring the country and is excited about coming to Henderson.

"People can expect a good time with some rowdy music," Pardi said. "I plan on putting on a great show.

Pico said the city hopes to do this event again next year.

For more information, visit hendersonlive.com.

Contact Henderson/Anthem View reporter Michael Lyle at mlyle@viewnews.com or 387-5201.