It wasn't until 4 years ago that I discovered how wonderful it is to attend the American Royal BBQ.  On Facebook, one of my friends asked how much it costs and I realized that it was a little confusing if you've never been.  

First, you have to pay for general admission tickets to the American Royal BBQ.  General admission tickets gets you into the main activities (ferris wheel, etc) and get to watch live music on the main stage.  There is food for purchase in the general admission section.

In addition to the general admission areas, you can also go to private parties (usually in the form of tickets).  This year I got to attend the Operation BBQ Relief (OBR) party at the American Royal BBQ Pig-a-palooza event.  Operation BBQ Relief was founded after the Joplin disaster to bring food to the people and first responders in that area.  Many teams operate under the Operation BBQ Relief umbrella and several BBQ teams came together to have a private party.  


1)  Food

Atmosphere / Vibe
The party for OBR was awesome from the moment you arrive  After you check in at the front, volunteers hand out goodies from sponsors and you get the chance to win prizes.  There was a large fire pit, a stage with a DJ performing, photo booth, 5 port-a-potties, a 2 story VIP section, merchandise for sale, 2 bars with unlimited drinks and all you can eat BBQ.







 Royal Expressions offered a PhotoBooth.



 Guests got swag bags from the BBQ Spot with rubs.
 Koozy swag!
 Koozy sponsored by the BBQ Spot.

 Another great sponsor, Kingsford.


 Install Solutions International







Music
DJ Kim Badami on the stage.

Location was good, but getting into Kauffman Stadium was a nightmare.  It took us 45 minutes to get into the parking lot.  Then we had to walk very far to the entrance, before back-tracking where we needed to be which was half way back to our car.


NET:
Would I return?  Yes - ABSOLUTELY I would!
Would I recommend to others?  Yes
What needs improvement:  More port-a-potties in the main areas of the private party sections
Pro-Tip:  Bring Cash to tip and donate even though it's free to drink and eat.