It’s never too soon to mark your calendars for sizzling Santa Maria Style Barbecue, including the Wild West BBQ Bash at Preisker Park in Santa Maria on July 11, 2009 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This festive and flavorful event, which is sanctioned by the by the International Barbecue Cookers Association, will pit (pun intended!) teams of expert barbecuers from across California in competition for the Wild West BBQ crown. Live music, face painting and other activities will provide fun for the entire family.

Admission to the event is complimentary. Attendees may purchase five barbecue tasting tickets for $10. Proceeds benefit the Family Care Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children in need across the Central Coast. For more information, please call (805) 706-0535.

For more information on events and other attractions in the Santa Maria Valley, visit www.santamaria.com.