SW New Mexico News

The Las Cruces Public Schools (LCPS) is hosting a BBQ competition for high school students, inviting the community to taste dishes prepared by participants from the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) culinary program and Future Farmers of America (FFA). The event will take place on Friday, November 1, at the Field of Dreams from 4-7 p.m. in the gated parking area at the baseball complex.

Participants will begin cooking at 10 a.m., with spectators welcome to watch as students prepare their BBQ. Attendees will receive three tickets each to sample food from different stations and support their favorite school. Judges will evaluate dishes based on main courses, sides, desserts, and cooking stations.

The menu includes St. Louis-style spare ribs and chicken as main meats, with grilled cheese and chili as sides, followed by dessert options. Each tent offers five tasting choices. Competitions will determine the best BBQ overall and the best side dishes.

High schools are vying for the title of BBQ grill-master champion through these five menu items. Community members can also vote for their favorite BBQ of the day. Winners will be announced during halftime at a football game between Las Cruces High School and Centennial High School at the Field of Dreams stadium.

The FFA group is responsible for smoking meats while collaborating with FCCLA students who handle sides and desserts. The event is funded by the “High School Innovation Zone Grant,” with support from First New Mexico Bank. Community volunteers are providing time and smokers to assist student grillers.

Parking for attendees is available within the gated area at Field of Dreams baseball complex off 2300 Tashiro Dr., with further details provided via map.