Praise the Lard Barbecue Cook-Off kicks off in Murphysboro

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

MURPHYSBORO, Ill., (KBSI) — The 39th annual Praise the Lard Murphysboro Barbecue Cook-Off begins Thursday, Sept. 24, bringing three days of barbecue competition, food and live music to Murphysboro.

Organizers expect more than 100 teams from across the country to compete through Saturday.

Thursday’s events include the Fish & Fixin’s meal from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at The Warehouse, 214 N. 17th St. Tickets are $24 and will be available at the door. Fish and wing contest winners will be announced at 9 p.m.

The Grand Champion Meal will be served from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, featuring barbecue and sides. Tickets are $32 at the door. Free live music is also scheduled Friday evening, with steak cook-off awards set for 9 p.m.

Competition continues Saturday as teams submit entries in categories including whole hog, chicken, ribs, pork and brisket. Live music is scheduled from 1 to 5 p.m., followed by awards later in the evening.

The barbecue awards ceremony is scheduled for 6 p.m. Saturday.