MARYSVILLE, CA (MPG) - Record-setting temperatures welcomed the 146th annual Bok Kai Parade and Festival this past weekend as crowds gathered in historic downtown Marysville.

About 50 entries participated in Saturday’s parade, including traditional lion dancers, marching bands and 4-H floats, along with go-karts, twirling flags and kite-flying performers. Live music filled the route, with performances at the corner of C and First streets featuring students from the Institute of Rock, as well as a community stage with local bands outside Woodbutcher Bar.

Festivities continued Sunday with Bomb Day, featuring cultural performances, a street fair, car show and the annual rib cook-off. Now in its third year, the competition included four teams, with tastings beginning at noon as attendees lined up to sample entries.

“I lived in Gridley for 15 years; I didn’t know this even happened,” said Nicole Caldwell. “I love food. I actually design cakes. I’m hoping to come to more events like this.”

Volunteers serve samples to attendees during the Bok Kai rib cook-off in Marysville on March 22, where visitors lined up to taste entries from competing teams. Photo by Shamaya Sutton

Flyin Hawaiian took home the People’s Choice Award and placed second with judges. Chef Raymond Ahu also served free brisket burgers and beans, drawing a steady crowd.

“This is our first year competing,” said Sam Morton of the Flyin Hawaiian team. “They said we couldn’t give away free ribs, so we did brisket instead.”

Station No. 2, another first-time competitor, featured chefs Troy Han, Lisa Barker and Brian Campbell, who incorporated Chinese-inspired flavors into their recipe.

“We wanted to embrace the culture, so there’s a lot of Chinese influence in our recipe,” said Barker. “It took a couple weeks to hone it. Some of the ingredients included sesame, ginger, Chinese five spice and Chinese mustard as our binder. The glaze took a couple rounds to get right.”

Competitor Jon O. returned after placing first in the inaugural year and second last year, joking he was aiming for third to complete his “collection.”

“I use this same recipe to cook ribs at Stassi’s Fourth Ward Tavern every Thursday during the summer,” he said.

Representatives of Ellyson Chiropractic ride through the parade route in costume during the Bok Kai Parade in Marysville on March 21. Photo by Chris Pedigo

Former Marysville Mayor Ricky Samayoa’s team, Ville Diablo, took first place with a dry rub and tender ribs.

“I had fun because I planned it,” said Samayoa. “I was trying to get a little Asian flavor to it. It’s also a great way to support the Marysville Bok Kai community.”