Savoring the Smoky Delights: Loveland Loves BBQ Celebrates 18 Years of Culinary Bliss

Loveland, Colorado, has long been known as the "Sweetheart City," and for the 18th consecutive year, it has played host to the beloved Loveland Loves BBQ festival. This annual celebration of all things smoked, grilled, and delectable has become a summer staple, drawing in locals and visitors alike to indulge in a mouthwatering array of barbecue offerings, from the classic to the unexpected.

Igniting the Flames of Flavor: Loveland Loves BBQ's Sizzling Success

A Community-Driven Culinary Extravaganza

The Loveland Loves BBQ event is a labor of love, organized by the dedicated members of the Loveland Sertoma, a local service organization. For two days, the Fairgrounds Park in Loveland transforms into a hub of culinary excitement, where local barbecue experts, food vendors, and live music come together to celebrate the quintessential summer meal. This free-to-attend festival has become a beloved tradition, drawing in crowds eager to savor the smoky delights and immerse themselves in the vibrant community atmosphere.

Expanding the Barbecue Horizons

While the event is renowned for its classic barbecue staples, such as succulent pulled pork and fall-off-the-bone ribs, it also offers a delightful twist with the inclusion of more unique offerings. This year, attendees were treated to the unexpected delight of smoked alligator, courtesy of the Gator Tails food truck. The owner, Bryce Hansen, shared his passion for smoking meats, showcasing his culinary prowess with the unique and flavorful alligator dishes.

A Feast for the Senses

As the temperature soared on Friday, the aroma of sizzling meats and the lively sounds of live music filled the air at Fairgrounds Park. Residents and visitors alike braved the heat to indulge in the mouthwatering offerings, with the BIGS Meat Wagon emerging as a crowd favorite. Jeff Schuh and his family, self-proclaimed "barbecue junkies," eagerly awaited their turn to savor the delectable dishes from this local favorite.

Embracing the Community Spirit

The Loveland Loves BBQ event is not just about the food; it's a celebration of community. The Smokin' Bros. Barbecue team from Eaton, Colorado, made the trip to be a part of the festivities, driven by their commitment to supporting local events and giving back to the community. Co-owner Gavin Maitland expressed the team's enthusiasm, stating, "We are big on the community. We try to support as much as we can."

Fueling Nonprofit Initiatives

Beyond the culinary delights, the Loveland Loves BBQ event serves a deeper purpose. The profits generated from the festival are channeled directly into supporting local nonprofits, as the Loveland Sertoma organization works tirelessly throughout the year to raise funds for these worthy causes. Event coordinator Jamie Keller emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Loveland Sertoma work hard all year raising money for nonprofits in the community, and 100% of these profits ... go to nonprofits within Loveland as well."As the sun sets on another successful Loveland Loves BBQ, the community eagerly anticipates the return of this beloved event, where the aroma of smoked meats, the rhythm of live music, and the spirit of togetherness converge to create an unforgettable summer celebration.