Rocklands Turns Up the Heat for the 12th Year!

A hot night for a great cause!

On Thursday, October 2nd, we packed the tents at Rocklands Arlington for one of the spiciest, smokiest, most delicious nights of the year.

Families, friends, and longtime supporters came out to enjoy pulled pork, classic Rocklands sides, cold drinks, and a lineup of creative hot sauces. The whole evening had an easy, welcoming feel — exactly what this event is known for.

Outside, the Arlington Fire Department set up a fire truck display and safety gear demo, which drew steady interest throughout the evening. Between the food, the contest, and time spent catching up with one another, the night had a steady, upbeat energy from start to finish.

Most importantly, the event supported the mission of the D.C. Firefighters Burn Foundation. Every ticket, plate, and hot sauce entry helped us continue providing support to burn survivors, injured firefighters, and their families through recovery. We’re pleased to share that the event raised over $5,000.

A sincere thank-you to Rocklands (@rocklandsbbq) for hosting and for their continued partnership. Their support has helped make this event a tradition our community looks forward to each year.

Hot Sauce Contest Winners:
• 1st Place: Cameron McKay — Sydney Sweeney Sweat
• 2nd Place: Will Romine — First You Burn, Then You Learn
• 3rd Place: MadHot Lemon Curry
• People’s Choice: Luis Guiterriez — Shutdown

We’re already looking ahead to next year’s contest — and to keeping this tradition spicy in all the right ways. 🌶️