Red Mountain United Methodist Church invites the community to its free BBQ and Music Festival, an event for the whole family, on Sunday, March 24, from 11:45 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Sonoran Dogs will play in the big tent on the church campus. Formed in 2011, the musical group exploded onto the bluegrass scene, performing and headlining many festivals and concert venues in the Southwestern U.S., and touring as far away as Australia. With every show, The Sonoran Dogs play with expertise, often improvising and showcasing original songs, traditional and contemporary music, as well as an eclectic mix of Bluegrass, Folk, Americana, Celtic and Newgrass.
The Sonoran Dogs include Peter McLaughlin, guitar/vocals; Mark Miracle, mandolin/vocals; Tyler James, banjo/vocals; and Brian Davies, upright bass/vocals.
Meanwhile, in the fellowship hall, where lunch is served, a talented trio will play live country music, featuring nationally known steel guitarist Margie Mays. Instruments include double neck non-pedal steel guitar, ribbon guitar and bass guitar.
The free meal includes pulled BBQ chicken sandwiches, homemade coleslaw, BBQ beans, potato chips and dessert, with hot dogs available for the kids.
Outside, kids will have many activities to keep busy throughout the day. There will be a bounce house designated just for preschoolers, who also can enjoy the outdoor, fenced playground. Bounce houses and games with prizes will be available for older children in another area of the campus.
Kids also will enjoy the face-painting station, a petting zoo and, if they didn’t fill up on BBQ, free cotton candy and popcorn.
Red Mountain United Methodist Church is located at 2936 N. Power Road, on the west side of Power Road, just north of McDowell Road.