The 12th annual Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival had a new feature this year: Friday night festivities.
Activities at the festival included a Kidz Grillin’ competition for fun and a more serious contest among adult pit masters, competing in the Florida Barbecue State Championship.
The event was held on the evening of March 4 and during the day on March 5.
Both days featured a chance to enjoy some succulent barbecue, to listen to blues music, to do some shopping, and to just hang out.
The Friday night activities were a big hit, said Melonie Monson, executive director of the Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce.
The Kidz Grillin’ contest drew 25 contestants, who were split into five teams.
“They (the kids) had the time of their lives. We had five of our pit masters that mentored them,” Monson said.
“And, it was just fun for the parents, the siblings, the staff — everybody had a great time on Friday night with that,” she said.
The bands draw a big crowd, too, she said.
The Friday festivities were “a real positive thing and probably something that we’ll continue doing,” Monson said.
The turnout the next day, however, was less than organizers had hoped for, Monson said. She noted the event was competing with the Florida Strawberry Festival, the boat show, the seafood festival and other events that day.
Still, Monson remained upbeat.
“We had a great day. The weather was beautiful,” she said.
She also said this year’s festival had some of the best bands that have played in the event’s history.
“They were just amazing,” Monson said.
Overall, the chamber executive said, “everybody seemed to have a great time. Our vendors did really well.”
Published March 13, 2022
