The sporadic drizzles offered brief respite last Sunday at JoJo’s Jerk Pit and More, where the Observer-sponsored Jack Daniel’s Big Birthday Backyard BBQ Bonanza was in high gear to celebrate the 162nd anniversary of the awardwinning charcoal-mellow Tennessee Whiskey, distributed locally by J Wray & Nephew Limited.

Scores of patrons were shuttled to the Waterloo Road-based eatery for a complete family experience. Upon entry, patrons were greeted by whiffs of grilled chicken, pork, sausages, and potatoes being prepared inside the white-top tents scattered about the venue. Think: jerked lamb, pork hot dogs, and burgers from VIP Meats; barbecued chicken and pork ribs from Copperwood Pork, and from the Jack Daniel’s BBQ competitors — Jack Daniel’s, Back Yard BBQ Caterers,

Uncle Buck’s BBQ, and Red Rascals — all with this year’s mystery side — potatoes.

Food aside, copious amounts of the Jack Daniel’s Whiskey was being poured inside the plush, spacious Jack Daniel’s drinking lounge, decorated by Dawn Leyow. Live music was courtesy of the Black Zebra band, while the children were kept busy at the candied apples stall, participating in a treasure hunt game, bull riding, face painting, and a flexibility-required limbo game. Thursday Food shares highlights.