Sunshine, sizzling BBQ, and community spirit were in full supply as over 250 residents and guests gathered for the 11th Annual Village of Oak Creek Community BBQ, held at VOCA Park this past Saturday.
Organized by longtime community members Damian Bruno, Danielle Giann, Andrew & Ania Bailor, and Omar & Heidi Kenney, the event has grown into one of the most cherished traditions in the Village. This year’s celebration did not disappoint, with a steady stream of families, neighbors, and friends gathering throughout the four-hour afternoon.
A Feast for All
Attendees were treated to an impressive spread of BBQ fare provided by Clark’s Market, including approximately 85 pounds of smoked pork, beef, and chicken, as well as 400 grilled hot dogs. To beat the heat, Rocky RD Ice Cream once again delighted the crowd with their signature “Javelina Tracks” flavor—crafted just for this event—alongside refreshing sorbet pops. Over 600 servings of ice cream were enjoyed.
Music, Pickleball, and Family Fun
Local musicians Omar, Doc, and Matt provided live music that created a lively and welcoming atmosphere throughout the park. Children and adults alike danced, relaxed, and soaked in the sounds that have become synonymous with this annual event.
For the first time, the VOCA Pickleball & Tennis Club hosted a courtside booth with free pickleball play and, equipment for newcomers. The activity proved to be a major hit and added a new layer of energy and engagement to the afternoon.
Honoring Community Support
In addition to heartfelt thanks to the volunteers and attendees, the organizers wish to recognize the sponsors whose generosity made the event possible:
- Clark’s Market Sedona
- Rocky RD Ice Cream
- Bell Rock Veterinary
- Snap Fitness
- Yavapai Title Agency
- Eye Boutique of Sedona
- Sedona Village Rotary Club
- The Village Veterinary Hospital
- Flew the Coop Nashville Hot Chicken Shack
The Sedona Fire District was also present, engaging with families and showing their support for the community they serve.
A Tradition That Builds Community
“The BBQ is more than just a free meal—it’s a celebration of the Village of Oak Creek’s strong sense of community,” said organizer Damian Bruno. “This is wSunshine, sizzling BBQ, and community spirit were in full supply as over 250 residents and guests gathered for the 11th Annual Village of Oak Creek Community BBQ, held at VOCA Park this past Saturday.
Organized by longtime community members Damian Bruno, Danielle Giann, Andrew Bailor, and Omar Kenney, the event has grown into one of the most cherished traditions in the Village. This year’s celebration did not disappoint, with a steady stream of families, neighbors, and friends gathering throughout the four-hour afternoon.
A Feast for All
Attendees were treated to an impressive spread of BBQ fare provided by Clark’s Market, including approximately 85 pounds of smoked pork, beef, and chicken, as well as 400 grilled hot dogs. To beat the heat, Rocky RD Ice Cream once again delighted the crowd with their signature “Javelina Tracks” flavor—crafted just for Annual BBQ—alongside refreshing sorbet pops. Over 600 servings of ice cream were enjoyed.
Music, Pickleball, and Family Fun
Local musicians Omar, Doc, and Matt provided live music that created a lively and welcoming atmosphere throughout the park. Children and adults alike danced, relaxed, and soaked in the sounds that have become synonymous with this annual event.
For the first time, the VOCA Pickleball & Tennis Club hosted a courtside booth with free pickleball play, equipment for newcomers, and a mini-lessons. The activity proved to be a major hit and added a new layer of energy and engagement to the afternoon.
Honoring Community Support
In addition to heartfelt thanks to the volunteers and attendees, the organizers wish to recognize the sponsors whose generosity made the event possible:
- Rocky RD Ice Cream
- Bell Rock Veterinary
- Snap Fitness
- Yavapai Title Agency
- Eye Boutique of Sedona
- Rotary Club Of Sedona Village
- The Village Veterinary Hospital
- Flew the Coop Nashville Hot Chicken Shack
The Sedona Fire District was also present, engaging with families and showing their support for the community they serve. We also had other participants such as The Sedona Village Rotary Club, Hope House, The Humane Society and The American Red Cross.
Tradition That Builds Community
“The BBQ is more than just a free meal—it’s a celebration of the Village of Oak Creek’s strong sense of community,” said organizer Damian Bruno. “This is what makes VOC such a special place to live. We’re already looking forward to next year.”This is what makes VOC such a special place to live. We’re already looking forward to next year.”
Photos and highlights from the event can be found on Facebook at facebook.com/VOCBBQ.
