BBQ, Blues & Brews Turns 10: Cedric Burnside, Local Flavor, and a Community Legacy in West Palm Beach
On June 28, the West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) closes out a decade of smoky ribs, soulful music, and neighborhood pride with the 10th and final CRA-produced BBQ, Blues & Brews. It’s a sunset sendoff, with Grammy-winning bluesman Cedric Burnside headlining and the city’s Historic Northwest in full spotlight at Heart & Soul Park.
“This year marks a major milestone… and it’s shaping up to be the biggest BBQ, Blues & Brews yet,” says Ansley Lacy, Marketing Manager for the CRA. “It’s also the final year the CRA will host the event, so we’re committed to making it truly memorable.”
Community First: Open Pits, Open Doors
Community First: Open Pits, Open Doors“The BBQ competition was open to anyone willing to bring their best,” Lacy emphasizes. “We believe in equity and inclusion, so we made sure the application process was accessible to all.”
Grillmasters from Foster’s BBQ, Meatheads BBQ, Twisted Smoke BBQ, and A & A Roadside BBQ and Jerk Center will compete for top titles and local bragging rights.
Local Brews, Fresh Roots
“We wanted to give attendees another way to explore local flavor,” says Lacy of the first-ever beer garden, featuring Coastal Karma Brewing, Garden District Taproom, and more.
The brews don’t just cool the crowd—they aim to plant deeper roots in the Historic Northwest business corridor.
Burnside’s Blues, Center Stage
Burnside’s Blues, Center Stage“He’s a true torchbearer of North Mississippi Hill Country blues,” says Lacy. “Featuring him reflects the caliber and growth of this event.”
Cedric Burnside, a recent Grammy nominee for Hill Country Love, joins The Derek Mack Band and Ladi T and the Super Star Players for a powerhouse lineup that celebrates past, present, and future Black musical heritage.
Economic Empowerment: The Styx Promenade and Beyond
“All the Styx Promenade businesses now officially own their buildings,” Lacy notes. “It’s a major milestone in local empowerment.”
One final tenant—Serene Beauty Suites—is set to open just ahead of the Styx Promenade Grand Opening on August 1st. The neighborhood’s transformation from historic corridor to economic engine is fully in view.
What’s Next for the Sunset Lounge?
What’s Next for the Sunset Lounge?“We see it as a cultural anchor,” says Lacy. Though closed for final fixture installations, the restored Sunset Lounge will soon welcome top-tier acts again, anchoring a vision that blends art, culture, and economic growth.
What the Community Thinks, the CRA Hears
What the Community Thinks, the CRA Hears“The Historic Northwest community shows up every time,” Lacy says. “Their pride and participation are what make this event truly special.”
CRA surveys residents to ensure future investments align with local needs. The event reflects that grassroots ethos—with vendors, musicians, and makers all representing the pulse of the place.
Event Details: 🗓️ Saturday, June 28, 2025 📍 Heart & Soul Park – 825 N. Rosemary Ave, West Palm Beach ⏰ 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM 🎟️ FREE & Family-Friendly 🎶 Lineup: – 5:15 PM: Ladi T and the Super Star Players – 6:30 PM: The Derek Mack Band – 8:00 PM: Cedric Burnside
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