BBQ at SXSW

Here are a couple of BBQ SXSW events for your tasting pleasure:

1. BBQ Crash Course: Thursday, March 11, 6-9 PM, Emo's, 603 Red River. "This is a rare opportunity to sample some of Central Texas' greatest and realest BBQ all in one spot, delivered to you by the men and women who make it day in and day out - come and meet the pitmasters. Each ticket includes more BBQ than you can eat, a drink ticket, dessert (banana pudding, cobbler, and Blue Bell) and some serious bragging rights."

2. Meat Up for Startups: Monday, March 15, 5:30-7:30 PM, Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th. Salt Lick BBQ and beer.

3. Closing BBQ and Softball Tournament: "The SXSW Barbecue is an authentic Texas spread, with all the trimmings (vegetarian options as well), prepared by Austin’s own Ruby’s BBQ, plus beer, water, and soft drinks. Menu: Beef brisket, chopped beef, pork spare ribs, smoked chicken, sausage, vegetarian jambalaya, potato salad, beans, 2 varieties of coleslaw, bread, butter, pickles, onions, sauce and a variety of cookies. Drinks: Beer, water and iced tea. It’s free for all music and platinum registrants (one meal per badge; you MUST bring your badge), but the area is also open to the general public, with food and soft drink tickets available for sale."