Moraga Rib Throwdown 2026
The 2nd Annual Moraga Rib Throwdown will bring together families, friends, local businesses and neighbors in a celebration of (friendly, non-sanctioned) culinary competition and community spirit.
Raising Money for Local Education All proceeds will benefit the Moraga Education Foundation, supporting Moraga's public schools: Camino Pablo, Los Perales, Rheem, JM, and Campolindo.
Please note that sharing of plates is encouraged, and the event is open to everyone. You do not need a ticket to get in or attend.
Non-sanctioned Competitors
Heads and Tails Barbecue ▶▶ (Berkeley, CA)
vs
MexiQ ▶▶ (Oakland, CA)
vs
Slow Hand BBQ ▶▶ (Pleasant Hill & Martinez, CA)
vs
Bad Bears BBQ ▶▶ (American Canyon, CA)
Serving plates from Ofa's Island BBQ ▶▶ (San Ramon, CA)
Sides from Live Oak Grilling ▶▶ (Moraga, CA)
Activities
. Local Swag Shop hosted by Vintage Vida ▶▶
. Featuring games and challenges with prizes from Sunday Swing ▶▶ and Beasts of the Bay Strength Gym ▶▶
Music Showcase Featuring
La Morinda Idol ▶▶
Bohrer Brothers Trio ▶▶
Special guest Bay Area Emcee, Actor & Vocalist Deuce Eclipse ▶▶
Guest Judges
Anthony Bartleson ▶▶
Chef Kris Austin ▶▶
Chef Emari Stevens ▶▶
Chris Krzak ▶▶
Sponsors
Golden Pig Sponsor :: Core Construction ▶▶
Team Sponsor :: Buhler Commercial Construction ▶▶
Team Sponsor :: Loard's ▶▶
Team Sponsor :: Bluespring Wealth ▶▶
Team Sponsor :: Axelrode Orthodontics ▶▶
Event Sponsor :: Safety Bros ▶▶
Event Sponsor :: Gagnon's Party Rental ▶▶
Sides Sponsor :: Jang Acupuncture ▶▶
Host :: Canyon Club ▶▶
Founder/Producer :: Jon Ruiz ▶▶
A big marketing high five goes out to Christine at Greet Moraga ▶▶. Major thanks to Fathers Brewing ▶▶ for bringing some beer! Thank you to MEF ▶▶ for day of support. Cheers to Last Ones ▶▶ for the branding and marketing support! Appreciation to Daniel Verrico ▶▶ for help with music production and management. Much appreciation to Hella Coastal Media ▶▶ for helping with content. Big thanks to Bay Blood Clothing ▶▶ for donating the sweet gear. Thanks to Evan at POP Manufacturing ▶▶ for bringing the awards to life. Our deepest thanks to the chefs, cooks, and service staff for helping us throwdown.
Make sure to join us on IG @ribthrowdown ▶▶
FAQ's:
Will the Chefs be cooking on site?
Not this year, but we have big plans for next year, so please stay tuned. Not to worry, the food will be fresh and amazing!
Want to do a Throwdown for your town or event? jon@jonruiz.com