2019 Citrus Heights ‘Battle of the Bands’ BBQ event to support vets

By Thomas J. Sullivan–
It’s time again to determine who will earn the bragging rights for who’s got the best local barbecue and who’s the best local band in the Fifth Annual “Battle of the Bands and BBQ,” held at the historic Rusch Home and Gardens, Saturday, Oct. 5th.

The Citrus Heights American Legion Post 637 has hosted the local event since 2015. All-you-can-eat barbecue and sides, including beans and roasted corn will be served up outside the Rusch Home from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

According to an event flier, gates will open at 10:30 a.m. with an opening ceremony at 11 a.m. Food will begin being served at noon.

Three local bands, The Rebel Creek Band, Common Grounds and Mojo Jones and nine barbecue pit masters will compete to win “the best BBQ and band,” voted on by attendees. Competitors include Dickey’s BBQ, Texas Roadhouse, Wild Wades BBQ and Grill, Lew’s Smokehouse. BRC BBQ, BBQ916 Smokehouse and Brewpub, and Mason’s Smokehouse BBQ.

Tickets for the event are $20 per person online or $25 at the gate. Children age 12 and under are free, if accompanied by a paid adult. Net proceeds will go to the Legion’s “Vets Helping Vets” fund, which assists homeless and in-need veterans and their families, according to Post 637 Commander Sylvia Thweatt.

The event annually attracts several hundred attendees to Rusch Park and has helped raise over $10,000 in prior years.

Tickets can be purchased in person at the event, or in advance.  Search for “Battle of the Bands” at eventbrite.com to purchase online advance tickets. For additional information call (916) 792-9669.

The Rusch Home is located at 7301 Antelope Rd., in Rusch Park.