Copper Mountain Unveils Spectacular Event Line-up For 28th Annual Colorado BBQ Challenge

Copper Mountain, one of Colorado's premier mountain resorts, is thrilled to announce the exciting event line-up for the 28th Annual Colorado BBQ Challenge.

• Live music performances from Nashville up-and-commers Sadie Bass, Sean Stemaly, Zach Jenks and Eric Van Houten  

• Copper BBQ Showcase Dinner, Bacon Burner 5K, Ribs 'n' Jibs rail jam, Yoga sessions, Father’s Day Brunch and Golf Scramble add flavor to the 2023 BBQ Challenge event schedule 

Taking place over Father’s Day weekend from June 15th to June 17th. This year’s event promises to be the ultimate celebration of delicious barbecue, live entertainment and friendly competition. In addition to the staple BBQ Challenge taking place, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy resort activities and compete in event offerings like a Ribs 'n' Jibs rail jam, Bacon Burner 5K, Kid’s Q Competition and a Father’s Day Golf Scramble.   

The 28th Annual Colorado BBQ Challenge, formally known as the Frisco BBQ Challenge, is a beloved tradition that attracts visitors from across the country. This year, the festival is relocating from its home of 27 years on Main Street Frisco, to Copper Mountain Resort, just seven miles west on I-70. The Colorado BBQ Challenge is Colorado’s longest running barbeque competition and will continue to be sanctioned by the Kansas City BBQ Society. With its picturesque mountain backdrop and mouthwatering aromas, the Colorado BBQ Challenge at Copper is set to showcase the very best in barbecue cuisine, entertainment and outdoor fun.  

“The Colorado BBQ Challenge is a staple event for the Summit County community and BBQ enthusiasts throughout the country, and we’re thrilled to be able to carry the torch forward for its 28th year,” said Dustin Lyman Copper President and General Manager. “We look forward to hosting this legendary event at Copper Mountain, where guests can enjoy a weekend filled with delicious BBQ, live music and fun competitions, in addition to the many outdoor activities the resort has to offer.”  

Here are some highlights that attendees can look forward to: 

• BBQ Tastings: Nearly 50 barbecue teams will compete in various categories including the four main meats (Chicken, Pork Ribs, Pork Butt and Brisket), the anything goes category (Elk, Chicken wings, Seafood, etc.) and more. A select group of competitors will be offering delectable tastings to the public, and a variety of vendors will be dishing out tasty BBQ offerings all weekend long. From succulent ribs and savory pulled pork to mouthwatering brisket and creative side dishes, the flavors will tantalize taste buds and satisfy every palate. 
• Copper BBQ Showcase Dinner: On Thursday, June 15, from 5:30-7 p.m., culinary enthusiasts are invited to treat their taste buds at Copper’s BBQ Showcase dinner. This exclusive ticketed event will highlight the best BBQ dishes from Copper Mountain’s Executive Chef, Justin Peterson and Banquet Chef, Dave Taladay. With Smoked Pork Ribs, Chef Carved Smoked Beef Brisket and Brined and Smoked Boulder Natural Chicken, dinner guests are in for an evening of delight. Taking place at CB Grille in Copper’s Center Village, Thursday’s dinner will also include a premium whiskey tasting presented by Jack Daniels and a custom souvenir YETI Lowball Rambler. Spots are limited, and guests are encouraged to purchase their tickets online in advance at Coppercolorado.com.  
• Musical Entertainment: The BBQ Challenge will feature free live musical performances from trending Nashville artists, Sadie Bass, Sean Stemaly, Zach Jenks and Eric Van Houten throughout the weekend. Sean Stemaly takes the stage at 7 p.m. on Thursday to kick off the festival. Zach Jenks will be performing from 4:30-6 p.m. both Friday and Saturday night offering soulful country sounds. Eric Van Houton, as heard on NBC’s The Voice, will be capping off the evening Friday night from 7-8:30 p.m. On Saturday, female country up-and-comer Sadie Bass, also featured on The Voice, will close out the festival from 6-7:30 p.m. Attendees can groove all weekend long with live DJs adding to the vibrant atmosphere between live performances. 
• Kids' Q Competition: On Friday, June 16, from 4-6 p.m. young grill masters are encouraged to show off their skills in the Kids' Q Competition, taking place in Copper’s Center Village. Anything goes in this BBQ contest as kids will have the opportunity prepare a grill item of their choice. It's the perfect opportunity for young ones to get fully immersed in the barbecue festivities. Kids will be divided into two categories, ages 5-10 and 11-15 and the top three in each age group will be rewarded with cash prizes. Parents can register their mini grill masters at Coppercolorado.com ahead of the event.  
• Ribs 'n' Jibs Rail Jam: On Saturday, festival goers can cool off from the smoking BBQ festivities during the Ribs 'n' Jibs rail jam competition being held on actual snow. Participants ages ten and up are invited to compete in their respective category, ski or snowboard. Age breakouts include 10-14, 15-17 and an 18 and up category. The winner in each age group takes all. Practice will take place on Friday and the competition fires up on Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Guests can spectate from Center Village as skiers and riders show off their spiciest tricks. Riders can register online in advance at Coppercolorado.com. 
• Bacon Burner 5k Run: A festival favorite, the Bacon Burner 5K Run returns to the Colorado BBQ Challenge on Saturday morning, June 17. Guests can embark on a 3.1 mile out-and-back run along a paved route throughout Copper, complete with a bacon aid station. All participants will receive Bacon Burner swag items and those 21 and up can partake in a Bacon and Bloody station. Athletes can sign up for this sizzling good time at Coppercolorado.com. 
• Sunday Father’s Day Brunch: After the festival winds down, guests can extend their BBQ weekend with a Father’s Day bunch for the whole family. With a Bloody Mary and Mimosa bar, eggs benedict, smoked pork loin, french toast kebabs, deviled eggs, spinach and rocket greens, fresh baked goods and a build your own dessert bar, it’s the perfect way to close out the tasty weekend. To secure a spot at this mouthwatering brunch, purchase tickets online in advance at Coppercolorado.com.  
• Father’s Day Golf Scramble: Copper Mountain's Father's Day golf scramble event is a great way for families to spend quality time together, enjoy the outdoors, and create lasting memories on the greens while honoring dad. Taking place at 12 p.m. on Sunday at the Copper Creek Golf Course, this 9-hole scramble welcomes teams of 2-4. The scramble will include prizes for the longest drive, closest-to-the-pin, and longest putt. Team spots will be limited and those interested can register online in advance for $250 per team. Regular tee-times will be available all weekend long. 
• Vendor Village: Throughout the weekend, the Vendor Village will showcase a diverse range of local artisans, craftsmen, and nonprofits, offering unique products, souvenirs, and merchandise. It's an excellent opportunity to explore and support the local community. 

"We are thrilled to present the incredible line-up of events for the 28th Annual BBQ Challenge," said Maria Fox, Director of Marketing and Events at Copper Mountain. "This year's celebration will bring together barbecue enthusiasts, families, and athletes to enjoy mouthwatering food, live entertainment, and a fantastic atmosphere. It's a can't-miss event for anyone looking for a weekend filled with fun and flavor." 

Admission to the Copper Mountain BBQ Challenge is free, and guests can purchase tickets for tastings and resort activities on-site. The event will take place at the heart of Copper Mountain Resort, providing breathtaking views and easy access to all the activities. Summer resort activities like scenic gondola rides, the Rocky Mountain Coaster, the Woodward Wrecktangle, a ninja style obstacle course, a Climbing Wall, Zip Line, Bumper Boats, Bungee Trampoline and Go-Karts will be offered for enjoyment throughout the weekend. Other on-site amenities like lodging and free parking will be available to those attending the festival. Lodging accommodations, ranging from condos to hotels, are available online. Guests can book now and stay just steps away from the festival.