Beer and beef

Port Neches is gearing up to host the much-anticipated SETX Craft BBQ Festival on Feb. 17, a celebration that promises a day filled with craft beers and the finest barbecue offerings in Southeast Texas. The event is scheduled to take place on Port Neches Avenue, kicking off at 11 a.m. and continuing until 9 p.m.

Food enthusiasts can look forward to a delectable array of options from renowned vendors such as 1701 BBQ, Big K Kabobs, Mabel’s, Old West Smoke Co., The Park on Calder, KO Korean Grill and several others. The festival aims to be a haven for barbecue lovers, offering a diverse range of culinary delights to satisfy every palate.

In addition to the mouth-watering food options, attendees will be treated to a musical lineup featuring Ethan Osborne, J.T. Reserve, Running on Credit, Thomas Teague and the Running Buddies, and Pug Johnson and the Hounds.

Neches Brewing Co., the first brewery in Southeast Texas, takes center stage as the event's primary beverage provider. This year marks the second annual celebration of Texas craft beer and barbecue, and the festival is being organized by Juss Rabalais, co-owner of Old West Smoke Co.

“The value of craft beer is in the detail, the preparation, the execution, and the dream,” said Rabalais. “You can get under-a-buck beers at the store all day, but Buxton Brewing Co. and Neches Brewing Co. are putting in the science and the work behind the scenes to deliver flavors you aren’t going to find anywhere else.”

For Rabalais, the SETX Craft BBQ Festival holds a special place in his heart. He sees it as more than just a good time; it’s a way to give back to Port Neches Avenue, a place that “gave me hope and a start when I was nobody selling barbecue out the back of my car,” said Rabalais.

Last year’s festival drew 3,000 attendees, a significant boost for local businesses such as Neches Brewing Co., Avenue Axe and KO Korean Grill, all of which experienced their largest sales days during the event. Rabalais expresses his passion for showcasing the quality and variety of fine foods in Southeast Texas, believing that attendees will be amazed by the culinary creations on display.

The festival is hosted by Old West Smoke Co. and will be situated near Neches Brewing Co. and Avenue Axe. For those looking to secure their spot, presale tickets are available for $15 at Neches Brewing Company, Avenue Axe, My Tribe Nutrition and 1701 Barbecue. Tickets will also be available at the gate for $20.