By LINDSAY DYESS / Community Columnist

The annual Shelby County Shindig is back for another year of great barbecue, blues and fun for everyone.

This fundraising event supports ongoing Shelby County Arts Council community programs such as ArtAbilities, Writing Our Stories and art classes at the Juvenile Detention Center.

Each year barbecue teams compete for prizes and the chance to be the best of the best.

Last year the Shelby County Reporter took home the prize for best ribs in Shelby County.

Can they defend that title for two years in a row?

At this event you will enjoy a great selection of barbecue, cold beverages, food vendors, a fun kids zone and great live music from the Magic City Blues Society.

There is something for everyone at this event. This year’s Shindig will be Saturday, July 14 on the streets of downtown Columbiana.

Gates open at 1 p.m. and the barbecue tasting starts at 4 p.m.

Event wristbands are $10 and include the chance to participate in the barbecue tasting.

Non-tasting wristbands are a $2 donation.

Children 12 and under get in for free with a paid adult.

Visitors are allowed to bring a chair to this event but no coolers.

For more information and for a full music schedule, visit Shelbycountyshindig.com.

Event tickets can be purchased at the entry gates the day of the event or preordered at Shelbycountyartscouncil.com.