Rib Cook Off at the Allen County Fairgrounds Saturday

LIMA - The Rays Ribs Cook Off has earned itself quite the reputation in the years since its inception.

The Lima area's annual rib competition and musical showcase is known for two things, said cook off coordinator Jay Begg (also the Allen County Fair manager): entertainment and eats.

"It pretty well speaks for itself," he said. "It's a fun time, there's good food, and you can meet your friends. It's one of the longer-running rib events in the area."

The two-day rib extravaganza will feature eight vendors this year, seven local and one out-of-state, preparing to do battle over their succulent creations. In addition to cook-off favorites like Red Pig Inn of Ottawa, Sgt. Oink's Pit BBQ of Tiffin and Carolina Rib King of Moore, S.C., the event has added two vendors, Begg said: D&B Smokin' BBQ of Celina is new to the roster, while Smokin' Joe's Hog Wild Barbeque returns after a year-long hiatus.

Those that visit the rib cook off can enjoy the ribs in one of two ways, Begg said.

"One is, people come and they know who's ribs they want to eat," he said. "Or they go buy what they think looks good and come in and buy ribs to eat."

Those who want to get in on the competition can also vote for the "People's Choice" rib selection, Begg said. Rib connoisseurs can buy a three-bone sampler for $5 from at least three different restaurants to be eligible to vote for the award.

Of course, the rib cook off wouldn't be complete without a good musical entertainment roster, and there are plenty of great bands performing both Friday and Saturday night, Begg said. Friday night brings the Rally in the Square out to the fairgrounds with the Sandy Hook Band, The Hipsters, Kristine Jackson and headliner Stacy Mitchhart.

On Saturday, rock wannabes can try their hand at a Guitar Hero contest at 1 p.m., Begg said. Aimed at engaging teens and pre-teens, the contest costs $5 to enter. After the contest, the live music begins at 5 p.m. with Kenny Kidd, and continues with Shining Star and The Rusty Griswolds.

"We pretty well have something going on at the stage at all times," Begg said. "We don't have room for any more than what we're doing."

Finally, Begg said the entertainment is rounded out with Tug-A-Truck in the grandstands at 6 p.m. Saturday. The cost to watch is $10, with pit passes available for $15 and $20.

Rays Rib Cook Off

WHEN: 5 to 11 p.m. today, noon to 11 p.m. Saturday

WHERE: The Allen County Fairgrounds, Lima

COST: Free admission and parking; $5 entry fee for Guitar Hero contest, $10 admission to Tug-A-Truck

FOR MORE INFO: Call 419-228-7141, or visit www.raysribs.com.