There is no such thing as too much barbecue, which is why we celebrate all things smoked, spicy and sizzling at the Nisqually Valley Barbecue Rally in Yelm each summer! This barbecue festival – happening July 26 – has all your favorite summer foods, a beer garden, live music and plenty of activities for the kids.
“Set in the heart of the Nisqually Valley, the Barbecue Rally brings people together with that small-town warmth, friendly faces, and a welcoming vibe you just can’t find anywhere else,” shares Dan Nicholson, D Zines co-owner and chair of the Nisqually BBQ Rally. “It’s where tradition meets fun — and everyone feels like family.” Dan and Shelley, his wife, have been the chairs for this event since the beginning, with D Zines being a proud sponsor.
21+ Beer Garden Pre-Funk Party at Yelm City Park
Kick off the weekend early at the 21+ Beer Garden Pre-Funk party, Friday 5–10 p.m. at Yelm City Park! It’s free, fun, and the perfect summer vibe – no barbecue yet, but you’ll get a sneak peek at the Amateur Andy competitors firing up for Saturday’s cook-off. Don’t miss it!
“This 21+ only event is your ticket to BBQ bliss, backyard bragging rights, and a night you won’t forget! Wander the pits, chat with the pitmasters, and get inspired by the smoky magic in the air! ” shares Wayne McCarten, Uptown Lounge manager, and beer garden co-chair and stage manager for the Nisqually Valley Barbecue Rally.
Here’s what’s on tap at the Beer Garden Pre-Funk:
Rock out to live music from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. with local band We Are The Strays. Their high energy will get you on your feet and dancing, so you can eat more barbecue!
Fancy yourself a cornhole king? Prove it with the Raggedy Barn Cornhole Tournament from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. There will be prizes! Other games starting at 7 p.m. include trivia, lawn games and more. “We will have a few surprise challenges to keep the laughs going and the drinks flowing!” shares Dan.
When you’re thirsty, the beer garden, sponsored by 507 Taproom & Filling Station and Uptown Lounge, will have you covered with beer and cider. “The beer will be flowing, the grill will be sizzling, and the party will be buzzing — all that’s missing is you,” adds Wayne.
Nisqually Valley Barbecue Rally Schedule
Head to bed with visions of ribs dancing in your head and come back the next morning at 10 a.m. for the barbecue festival you’ve been dreaming about! And, this year the beer garden opens at 10 a.m. too!
“Get ready for a full day of music, dancing, and good old-fashioned fun at the Nisqually Valley BBQ Rally!” shares Stephanie Kangiser, owner of Bliss Experience Salon & Spa, Yelm City Council member and Barbecue Rally volunteer chair. “We’ve lined up a stellar mix of live bands, dynamic dance performances, and the always popular America’s Credit Union Pie Eating Contest!”
With a full food vendor list, you will not go hungry at this barbecue festival! Of course, you will find all types of barbecue to fill the belly. Whether you like sweet or tangy, or so hot your mouth is on fire – the talented local chefs will be cooking it up for! But you can’t live on barbecue alone, so pair your choice with ice cream, shave ice, kettle corn, donuts and more. Fresh coffee and freshly-squeeze lemonade will be available too. Basically, all your favorite summer foods created by top chefs, all in one place! “From cool and creamy to warm and sugary — there’s something tasty waiting for everyone! Come for the BBQ, stay for the treats!” shares Dan.
While you eat your fill, check out the live entertainment happening all day on the Northwest Chevrolet Stage. Music and dance performances include:
- Ambience – Fresh sounds and feel-good grooves to keep you movin’
- Lemmings – Olympia’s own original rock band bringing the heat
- Switchback 360 – High-energy, crowd-pleasing hits
- Saltwater Sky – Smooth country vibes with a Pacific Northwest twist
- Borderline Dance Team – Precision, power, and performance
- Total Sports Development Dance Team – Energetic youth bringing their A-game
And of course, there will be plenty of fun for you to participate in as well! Sign up early for the America’s Credit Union Pie Eating Contest. There are three age divisions for ages 10 and under, 11 to 17 and 18 and up. “Spots fill up fast! I love watching the sheer excitement of every participant! These berry pies don’t stand a chance!” says Stephanie.
Adults can still sign up for the Amateur Andy BBQ Competition, sponsored by Lucky Eagle Casino & Hotel. Categories include pork shoulder, chicken, pork ribs and beef brisket. Prizes will be awarded! “Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just getting started, this is your chance to shine,” says Dan. “Bring the flavor, bring the smoke, and bring your A-game!”
Have a kid who’s the next Top Chef? Have them enter the Youth Burger Contest, sponsored by Ferguson Insurance Services. Those that grill up the best burger will bring home cash prizes – $300 for first, $150 for second and $50 for third. It’s free, so be sure to sign your kids up!
Sign-ups for Competitions are on the Nisqually Barbecue Rally website.
When it’s time for kids to burn off some energy, they can play in the bounce houses provided by Living Water Church, or do a hands-on activity with YARD. (Youth Advocacy and Recreation Development). YARD will be doing different activities throughout the day.
Get Involved in the Nisqually Valley Barbecue Rally
Want to do more than attend? The rally won’t be possible without sponsors and volunteers! “Their dedication, creativity, and community spirit are the driving force behind the Rally’s continued success,” shares Stephanie. “We are incredibly grateful for all they do to make this event unforgettable year after year!”
Volunteers receive “Red, White & BBQ” t-shirts. “We’re looking for awesome community members to help make this event run smoothly — and have a blast while doing it!” she adds. Reach out Stephanie Kangiser email? Phone? To become a volunteer.
They also still have space for a few business vendor spots, so if interested in joining, sign up ASAP. More information on the barbecue festival can be found at the Nisqually Barbecue Rally website.
“It’s more than just great food and good music — it’s the old-town charm and community spirit that make this event truly one-of-a-kind,” shares Dan.
Can’t wait? Check out the South Sound BBQ Festival July 12!
Nisqually Valley Barbecue Rally
Kick-off Pre-Funk Party, July 25
5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
BBQ Rally, July 26
10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Yelm City Park
115 SE Mosman Avenue, Yelm
Sponsored
