Join us for the 2025 Shady Strong BBQ Competition & Music Festival, a day filled with food, music, and community spirit, all in support of individuals and families affected by ALS in Upstate New York.
This annual event, hosted by Shady Strong, is more than just a festival — it’s a powerful way to make a difference.. 100% of proceeds go directly to helping families affected by ALS in our region. Whether it’s providing medical equipment, offering financial support, or simply giving families a moment of relief, every dollar raised at this event fuels our mission of bringing hope and practical assistance to those who need it most.
What You'll Experience:
• Live BBQ Competition: Watch regional pitmasters compete in chicken, ribs, brisket, and pulled pork categories.
• Tasting Tent Access Starts at 12:15 PM: Enjoy samples of chicken, ribs, and brisket — the same entries our official judges will be tasting. Included with your entry ticket and available while supplies last.
• People’s Choice Pulled Pork Competition – 2:00–3:00 PM
Get ready for some friendly competition! Purchase a tasting ticket and make your way through the pulled pork entries, meeting each BBQ team along the way. You’ll sample, compare, and then decide where to place your vote — but be warned, the teams may try to persuade you with charm, creativity, and secret sauces! Your vote helps crown the People’s Champion, and all proceeds support ALS families.
• Live Music Lineup
The Stoutmen | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
The Beadle Brothers | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a full afternoon of local live music.
• Raffles & Prizes: Win exciting items from the Kansas City Royals, New York Mets, local businesses, themed gift baskets, and more! All raffle proceeds benefit ALS families.
• Local Vendors & Artisans: Shop handmade crafts, local goods, food, and Shady Strong merchandise.
• ALS Tribute Area: Pause to honor those affected by ALS and learn about the mission that drives our work.
• Veteran Recognition – Approximately 5:15 PM:
As the day winds down, we invite you to join us for a brief ceremony to honor our veterans, especially those affected by ALS. This moment of reflection recognizes the sacrifice and service of those who have served our country and acknowledges the devastating link between military service and ALS.
Why This Event Matters:
ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) is a progressive, life-limiting disease with no cure. It affects every aspect of life: mobility, communication, independence.
Shady Strong is a 100% volunteer-run nonprofit supporting individuals living with ALS, especially in the Southern Tier and Upstate New York. This event helps raise the funds needed to provide free equipment, personalized support, and awareness year-round.
For full event details, visit www.shadystrong.org or follow us on Facebook at @ShadyStrong
Can't come to the event? You can still help us reach our 2025 goals by donating here:
https://shadystrong.org/#donate
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