Thousands attend Blues Hog BBQ and Music Fest Downtown

JACKSON, Tenn. — Saturday was the second day of the Blues Hog BBQ and Music Fest in downtown Jackson.

“Isn’t this fantastic,” said Mitch Carter. “If you’re lucky enough to be in downtown Jackson, you’re luck enough. This is the best fest we’ve had in downtown.”

Saturday the competition part of the 2nd Annual Blues Hog BBQ and Music Festival began.

“Anytime I’m cooking in downtown Jackson, Tennessee at the farmers market which is out of the world, I’m telling ya this is off the hook,” said festival founder and competitor Billy Arnold.

More than 60 pit masters from across the country filled the Hub City with unforgettable smells hoping to take home the carved pig. Thousands flooded the farmers market just to get a taste of what was cooking.

“Everything tasted marvelous,” said Mike Edwards. “I had some really good BBQ tasting a while ago.”

“You shouldn’t be eating it because it additive,” said Carter. “You want to go back and get seconds, thirds and all those things.”

Although after less than an hour most competitors were out of food, money raised today will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Q-Bones took home the peoples choice award and Gettin’ Basted was the grand prize winner.

“We’re celebrating BBQ,” said event organizer Tim Scheer. “Its a fun time we’re raising money for charity. We’re doing something good for the community and that really what its all about.”

Folks at the Blues Hog Fest say they can’t wait till next years competition because an event like this in the heart of downtown Jackson is great for the city.

“Hopefully it will be down here again and grow and grow,” said Carter.

“I will be back next year,” said Edwards.

The top 10 scorers in each category went home with a cash prize. Event organizers say more than 5000 people attended Saturdays competition.