Western Riverside County’s can’t miss community events, unique cities, and variety of attractions make it an excellent starting point for a California getaway. Travelers looking for relaxation and improving their overall well being will love the Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa. Here people can undergo a variety of treatments including their signature Quartz Massage, as well as sample delicious cuisine at the onsite Ivy Grill. Those in search of more action will find a host of fun outdoor activities. Skull Canyon Zipline offers a variety of zipline courses, and the Santa Ana Trail stretches 110 miles along the Santa Ana River (ideal for long bike rides). The Oak Quarry Golf Club was named the National Golf Course Owners Association Course of the Year in 2013.
The Horsetown Brew N’ Que Festival has showcased the region's best-barbecued foods since it began four years ago, and it will take place June 1-3 at the George Ingalls Equestrian Event Center in Norco. This is a Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) sanctioned event complete with live music, craft beer, celebrity chefs, and mouthwatering foods for sampling. The event kicks off with the VIP Reception (June 1, for VIP ticket holders) which is a meet-and-greet with celebrity chefs Michael Character and Phil Dell. At the main event (June 2) attendees can taste BBQ brisket, chicken, pork and ribs from the area’s top BBQ talent, as well as craft beers from regional craft breweries. Patrons can also listen to live music throughout the event ranging from country to pop. If you’re interested in judging the competition, an official KCBS judging class teaches prospective judges rules, how to score, and characteristics of the foods. Purchase of a VIP ticket includes access to the VIP Reception, early entry to the main event, and more. If you’re planning to attend with the entire family, don't miss out on the Kids Corner which has a petting zoo, arts and crafts, kids cooking class, and games. ResortsandLodges.com interviewed Event Representative, Debbie Yopp, to learn more about this celebration of BBQ, craft beer, and music.
RAL: How long has the event been running?
DY: This is our 4th year!
RAL: How many annual attendees do you draw?
DY: We expect between 3,000 and 4,000 attendees.
RAL: What demographic does your event attract? Children? Families? Couples?
DY: This is a family-friendly event with something for everyone.
RAL: What makes this event unique?
DY: There will be celebrity chefs, competition BBQ, craft beer, kids ‘que, kids cooking class, and a variety of live music performances.
RAL: Take me through a day at the event. What activities can I expect?
DY: Beside the excitement of a competition barbecue cook-off, guests can buy BBQ samples as well as full plates of food. We even have a vegan BBQ vendor. There will be live music ranging from country to R&B, as well as prizes, giveaways, kids cooking class, a certified BBQ Judging class, and more!
RAL: Will there be any guest appearances?
DY: Yes, Michael Character (BBQ Pitmasters) Phil Dell (Food Network Chopped) will be on hand, plus all of our participating chefs and cooks. We also expect Big Dane and a few other celebrities to make an appearance. Don't miss out on the Johnny Crawford autograph signing sessions.
RAL: Tell us about the overall atmosphere.
DY: It's a relaxed open-air environment which offers family fun and dining without being under the blazing sun.
RAL: Are there any lodging specials that are set up for the event?
DY: Yes, there is a room discount at the Hampton Inn. Call (951-279-1111) for more information.
RAL: Does this drive business to your local economy?
DY: Yes, the event supports local business and the county of Riverside. It’s an excellent platform for cooks and chefs to reach a broader audience.
RAL: Does the event support a particular cause in the community?
DY: The event supports the Caramel Connections Foundation which raises awareness about healthy eating. We also work with the scholarship program for the Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
DY: A roof completely covers our event with no direct sun. We have great music and diverse entertainment. We offer a petting zoo, crafts, cooking classes for kids, and giveaways for parents. People have the chance to meet the BBQ teams featured on TV, guzzle their favorite brew, and chomp on their favorite barbecue. Kids under 11 are free. We recommend getting there before the BBQ is gobbled up.
For more information about the Horsetown Brew N’ Que Festival, please visit the event website.