Park Drive After 5 returns June 19 with BBQ rib competition

Following a successful kickoff event in May, Park Drive After 5 is set to return to Lennox Park on Friday, June 19, bringing an evening filled with live entertainment, local vendors, food and community activities.

The family-friendly event will run from 5 to 8 p.m. A full lineup of entertainment is planned at the bandshell, beginning with Little Miss activities hosted by Allie McLouth from 5 to 6 p.m. Live music will follow as Allison Harmony takes the stage from 6 to 8 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy the performance.

In addition to the entertainment, more than 25 farmers market vendors are expected to be on site offering a variety of products and handmade goods.

One of the featured attractions for the evening will be a BBQ rib competition. Competitors will battle for cash prizes and trophies awarded to the top three finishers. Organizers provide the ribs for the competition and are still seeking additional participants.

Those interested in entering the contest can contact Brandi Nordman at 605-231-1323 or by email at brandienordman@gmail.com or Joe at ACE Hardware for more information.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to sample the competition entries, with rib plates available for purchase for $20. Additional food options will be available from food trucks throughout the evening.

New this month, a beer tent will be available during the event. Also members of the Lennox High School Drama and Choir programs will be selling mocktails as a fundraiser.

Classic car enthusiasts are invited to participate in the evening’s sit-and-shine display by bringing vintage vehicles and other specialty automobiles to showcase in the park.

Nordman said the event continues to grow, with increasing participation from vendors, community organizations and local residents.

Looking ahead, the next Park Drive After 5 event is scheduled for July 17 and will focus on children and families. Planned activities include a Touch-a-Truck experience and a movie in the park. Community members can currently vote for the featured movie through a poll on the Park Drive After 5 Facebook page.

Park Drive After 5 will continue with dates set for Aug. 21 and Sept. 18.