The 12th Annual BBQ-n-Blues kicks off Saturday, September 19, 2026, with great tunes and the BBQ & a Rib Cook-Off Contest! Held on First Street between Marquette & Gooding in historic downtown La Salle, bands will begin at 4:30 pm, with the Rib Cook-Off turn in at 6:00 pm, and the winner announced on stage at 8:00 pm. Enjoy some of area’s best blues bands, and don’t forget to grab some fantastic food!  Free admission and free parking on all city streets and lots. Fireworks at 10:00PM to finish out the weekend, courtesy of the City of La Salle!

Band Lineup:

4:30pm - Ivy Ford Band (link)

Ivy Ford - versatile, talented, an old soul. From singing the blues to being sultry, she is an indigo artist who's gift connects those who are around her and those who listen. Whether leading a full band or serenading a small audience solo on stage, Ivy Ford commands an energy that is most magical.

6:30pm - The Jimmys (link)

8:30pm - The Jimmy Nick Band (link)

Jimmy Nick is an old-fashioned, guitar slinging blues prodigy who spent his teenage years being schooled by legendary bluesmen in the famous Chicago clubs of Kingston Mines, Rosa’s Lounge, and B.L.U.E.S. on Halsted.

Over the last year Jimmy has recorded his first live album for a full house at The Raue Center for the Performing Arts, performed over 200 shows*, advanced to the semifinals at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, as well as headlined at Buddy Guy’s Legends, and B.L.U.E.S on Halstead. Most recently, he was featured on the WGN Morning News.

In addition, Jimmy has opened for the legendary Eddie Shaw, Bobby Rush, Toronzo Canon, Dick Dale, The Mike Wheeler Band and performed at SXSW. Jimmy has sold over 1,500 copies of his 3rd studio album –Rare Breed, which features Eddie Shaw performing with Jimmy on his original blues tune “Greedy Man”.

Jimmy Nick has also shared the stage with John Mayall, Ted Nugent,Samantha Fish, Pat Travers, Savoy Brown, Los Lonely Boys, Gov’t Mule, Kenny Wayne Shepard and more. Jimmy Nick & Don’t Tell Mama continue to be one of the most requested and hard working bands in the Chicagoland area.

Today Jimmy’s mission is to expose the next generation to the blues. Driven by his motown-tight band, Don’t Tell Mama, featuring saxophone, bass, and drums Jimmy excites crowds with his electrifying guitar work, fresh harp, clever lyrics and animated stage theatrics. His high energy blues and rock-n-roll captivate audiences, and forge instant fans.

Fireworks at 10:00PM, courtesy of the City of La Salle!

Food Vendors: Haze Smokehouse, The Dog House, Big B BBQ, Mickey's Massive Burritos, 9th Street Pub, and the La Salle VFW!

Drink Vendors: Domestic beer and seltzers, Signature Cocktails from Star Union Spirits, and Wine from August Hill Winery!