BBQ4Badges: Iowa’s Largest Backyard BBQ Returns to Oskaloosa for the 7th Year
BBQ 4 Badges
The much-anticipated BBQ4Badges event is set to sizzle once again in Oskaloosa City Square on June 14-15. This year marks the seventh annual benefit for emergency services in Mahaska County, promising to be the largest and most exciting yet.
Organized by a dedicated team including Wyndell Campbell, Cory Wright, Greg Johnson, and Brad Van Mersbergen, BBQ4Badges has grown exponentially since its inception seven years ago. Campbell recalls the humble beginnings of the event, which started from a simple breakfast conversation and grew into a major community gathering. “The first year we threw one together in about eight weeks and had 11 teams,” Campbell said. “We’ve grown significantly and been pleasantly surprised by the support from the community and beyond”.
This year’s event features approximately 40 teams competing for a share of the $10,000 purse, split between Pro and Joe teams. As of now, 36 teams are registered, with the expectation of more joining. “We’re starting to get tight on room, but we hope to have close to 40 teams,” Campbell noted. The competition will showcase an impressive array of cooking styles and equipment, from pellet grills to homemade smokers.
The event kicks off on Friday afternoon, aligning with the city’s Friday After Five festivities. Streets will be closed around noon to accommodate the influx of BBQ teams setting up. For the first time, attendees can purchase a wristband covering both Friday and Saturday, allowing them to sample offerings from the various teams. “A gentleman called me today, and he’s making like 50 pounds of his own sausage,” Campbell shared, highlighting the diverse culinary treats available that will be available.
BBQ4Badges is not just about good food and fun; it serves a critical purpose. Over the past seven years, the event has raised nearly $100,000 for local emergency services. Funds have supported various projects, such as procuring a water rescue unit for the Oskaloosa Fire Department, training a new police dog, and outfitting a new patrol car. This year, the event aims to surpass previous fundraising records, continuing its mission to support those who serve the community. “All that money goes directly to first responders,” Campbell emphasized.
The heart of the event remains the Oskaloosa City Square, a central location symbolic of community unity and celebration. “The city center, the courthouse, the town square—that always seems like the place when there’s something to celebrate or something for the community to come together,” Campbell explained. The event fosters camaraderie among first responders and community members, with friendly ribbing and competition adding to the fun.
As BBQ4Badges continues to grow, it remains a beloved tradition in Oskaloosa, bringing together old friends and new ones for a weekend of exceptional BBQ, live music, and community spirit. For more information and to purchase wristbands, visit Wyndell Campbell State Farm along A Avenue West or on the square as the event starts. Don’t miss out on this year’s exciting event, supporting a great cause and enjoying some of the best BBQ Iowa has to offer.
Make sure to grab your wrist bands to enjoy both Friday and Saturday at the 2024 BBQ-4-Badges.
