If you haven't heard, there is a barbecue championship about to take place in Dana Point on Saturday, Sept. 24 starting at 9 a.m.

In fact, the trucks started arriving today loaded with all kinds of grills and barbecues for the city of Dana Point's world-class barbecue championship at Sea Terrace Park, at Pacific Coast Highway and Niguel Road.

The city is partnering with the Kansas City Barbecue Society to bring  backyard enthusiasts, as well as professionals, together for a barbecue marathon.

Competitors from around the country are expected to descend on Dana Point to vie for up to $10,000 in cash prizes that will be awarded to the top winners.

Categories include: chicken, pork, ribs, brisket and dessert. 

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, the 5th Marine Support Group, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934, local non-profits and youth groups in Dana Point.

In addition to the professional barbecue competition, the event will also feature a dessert competition. Arlie Bragg will bring his expertise to Dana Point to oversee the barbecue and dessert competitions. Bragg, a member of KCBS and resident of Joliet, TN., is renowned for his barbecue accomplishments, according to the city of Dana Point's website.

Getting There:

• Free parking at Salt Creek Beach Park and Strands Vista Park.

• Free shuttle bus service from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. from Strands Vista Park, 34201 Selva Road to Salt Creek parking lot.

• Free shuttle assistance from Salt Creek parking lot to/from concert area for seniors and those with disabilities.

• Sea Terrace Park is located at Pacific Coast Highway at Niguel Road.

More information can be found on the Kansas City Barbecue Society website at kcbs.us, or the city website at danapoint.org.