8-3-26-Battle of the BBQ INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The 19th annual Battle of the Barbecue is heating up Saturday, Aug. 5, in Lebanon, bringing together community members for a day of food, competition and compassion. The event benefits Boone County Cancer Services (BCCS), an organization dedic ated to supporting cancer patients who reside in Boone County. “You can expect 32 teams and five to 100 volunteers out in the park at Memorial Park in Lebanon,” said Joy Kaylor, executive director of BCCS. “And we just cook barbecue all afternoon.” Event Details Where: Memorial Park, Lebanon, Indiana When: Saturday, Aug. 5, 2026 Time: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Cost: $15 wristband (all-you-can-eat barbecue) What to Expect 5K run starting at 8 a.m. 32 barbecue teams competing Golf cart raffle Silent auction with 40 baskets Live band 50-50 raffle Food court with sandwiches and chips Record-Breaking 5K Registration More than 400 participants have registered for the 5K, making this year’s run the biggest yet. “We’ve got 22 teams right now that have formed,” said Diane Martin, program manager at BCCS. “And we’ve got three that are like neck-and-neck in competition to get their name on this plaque.” Teams walk or run in honor or memory of loved ones affected by cancer. The biggest team will have its name added to a traveling trophy, following last year’s winners, the Lucky Stars from Zionsville. Serious Barbecue Competition The barbecue competition features categories for sweet, hot and spicy, plus an overall best barbecue award. Judges take the competition seriously, going off-site with meat samples to ensure fair scoring. Approximately 18 judges evaluate entries. Winners receive trophies, and teams compete for best fundraiser recognition throughout the year. Supporting Local Cancer Patients All funds raised stay in Boone County to help local cancer patients and their families. “All of the money stays local in Boone County,” Kaylor said. Last year, the event drew 6,500 attendees and raised $130,000. BCCS is carried out by two staff members and a group of passionate volunteers. The organization offers a range of services designed to meet the needs of cancer patients and their families, treating everyone with care and respect. Silent Auction and Raffle Nearly 40 baskets will be available for silent auction bidding, featuring prizes themed around America’s 250th anniversary celebration. Bidders do not need to be present to win. The golf cart raffle continues to be a popular attraction, with $15 tickets available for purchase. Additional BCCS Fundraisers Beyond the Battle of the Barbecue, BCCS hosts several other fundraising events throughout the year: Bingo in the fall Euchre in the spring Golf outing How to Participate Community members can participate by: Registering for the 5K on-site Saturday morning Purchasing a $15 wristband for all-you-can-eat barbecue Bidding on silent auction items Buying golf cart raffle tickets Making direct donations to BCCS For more information, contact Boone County Cancer Services or visit Memorial Park on Saturday. ...read more read less