It’s once again a chance to gather with friends (and make new ones), chow down on scrumptious food, play games, dance to pulsating music and celebrate the Pacific Northwest’s summer outdoors.

The first Community BBQ, held June 18 of last year in Renton, was off the hinges! Folks from around the area helped make our inaugural event a splendid kickoff to summer. We’re back at it again, though this time it’s slated closer to the start of the school year.

The price hasn’t changed, however: just $10 a plate! Try filling up on BBQ for that price anywhere else! And you can either purchase a plate for yourself or someone else or receive a plate courtesy of a donor.

So, what should folks expect this time around? We’ve posed that and other queries to United Way’s associate director of events and marketing Kylee Blue and our marketing & events manager Mari Hirabayashi. Here’s what they had to say:

Q: Last year’s BBQ drew nearly 1,800 people, with rides, games and lots of scrumptious food. What are you bringing back from last year’s event?

A: You’ll see a lot of inflatables again this year, Kids Quest Children’s Museum is back, along with lots of carnival games, robotics, delicious BBQ and other food vendors, and fun entertainment.

Q: What are some new offerings that folks should expect?

A: We will have a designated teen area called The KickBack, art activities from Seattle Paint Party, a new hockey activity hosted by the Seattle Kraken, activities provided by Pacific Science Center and the University of Washington Athletics and more!

Q: You’re also hosting this year’s BBQ nearly two months after last year’s date. Why is that?

A: Planning such a big event involves aligning schedules and August was the perfect time to celebrate the end of summer, celebrate community and look ahead to productive fall season.

Q: Can you please explain the idea behind “Buy a Plate” and “Enjoy a Plate?”

A: The cool thing about the Annual Community BBQ is that everyone is invited! In order to keep this event accessible to all, we encourage guests who are able to buy a plate not only for themselves, but for a community member so that everyone can join in on the fun and there are no barriers for folks or families to attend.

Q: How accessible is the BBQ, from arriving to entering the stadium?

A: There are ADA parking spots in both the North and South lots, there are ramps/flat paths from entry all the way on to the field. There is also an elevator lift in the south stands.

Q: So, what do I get for my $10?

A: Full access to all the activities inside the event, including face painting, balloon animals, carnival games and more. Each entry will come with one ticket good to redeem at any food vendor for a full plate of BBQ (or other food of your choice). There will also be free popcorn, cotton candy and other goodies on a first come first serve basis.

Q: What if I want to bring a group to the BBQ?

A: We encourage groups to register for the BBQ. Please contact eventregistration@uwkc.org for information on registration.

Q: How can I help out or volunteer for the event?

A: If you are inspired to help we encourage you to purchase a community plate so that everyone can join us, regardless of cost. If you’d like to volunteer day-of you can sign up here.

For more information about the BBQ, click here, and we’ll see you there!