Downtown Parkersburg Events and Marketing Manager Jessica Strickler, right, hands out bracelets to two attendees at the Downtown Throwdown. (Photo by Kristen Hainkel)

PARKERSBURG — Attendees near and far flocked to Bicentennial Park Saturday evening for barbecue, beats and booze.

Downtown Throwdown returned for another year with eight food vendors, three beer distributors and live music. It was organized by Downtown Parkersburg and the Parkersburg Jaycees. Downtown Parkersburg Events and Marketing Manager Jessica Strickler was at the gate, handing out bracelets for attendees who purchased alcohol. She said she anticipated a good turnout due to the nice weather.

“We don’t typically sell a lot of tickets ahead of time. A lot of people will wait and see what the weather is like. But it’s sunny now,” she said

Cincinnati native Dennis Simpson became aware of the Throwdown after attending Paddlefest in Point Park in 2016.

“We go to Paddlefest and have this in the evening. It’s fun to attend,” he said.

Singer-songwriter Moon King, center, performs during the Downtown Throwdown with Brayden Roux on mandolin, left, and Rich Wilson on harmonica, right. (Photo by Kristen Hainkel)

Simpson said the reason he keeps returning to Parkersburg every year is the people.

“I’ve done a lot of kayaking and people are a lot friendlier on this side of the river,” he said. “In Cincinnati, people like to show off. Here, it’s much more laid back.”

At the main stage, guests were first serenaded by 19-year-old Parkersburg native Moon King from 6 to 6:45 p.m. He was accompanied by Rich Wilson on harmonica and Brayden Roux on mandolin. From 7 p.m. to close, country act Jake Binegar Band performed. Their first song was called Love on Fire.

The eight food vendors in attendance were D’Paulo’s Pizzeria, Hangry’s Food Truck & Catering, JP Henry’s, Pappy’s Lip Smackin’ BBQ, Parkersburg Brewing Company, The Blennerhassett Restaurant & Lounge, The Cocktail Bar, and The Little Stirr. They served everything from barbecue to cupcakes to pizza.

Mountain State, Capitol, and Spriggs distributors served both domestic and craft beers to customers.

Brian Lutter of Belpre, left, presents a drink ticket to volunteer Angie Joy at the Parkersburg Brewing Company booth while Heather Reaser of Parkersburg watches. (Photo by Kristen Hainkel)

Vienna’s Amanda and Matthew Whitt, left, await their order from the Blennerhassett Hotel at the Downtown Throwdown. (Photo by Kristen Hainkel)