There’s no better way to spend your weekend by firing up the barbeque and spending some good quality time with family and friends.

A BBQ patio party is especially perfect this Saturday August 1, as barbeques will be collectively sizzling all over the country for the annual World’s Longest Barbeque. Anita Stewart, cookbook author and culinary activist, launched the event as part of Canada’s Food Day back in 2004 in order to celebrate all those hard-working Canadian men and women who bring local food to our tables. The event started in 2003 as a way to demonstrate support for Canadian Beef producers. Now in its sixth year, the World’s Longest Barbeque has become a celebration of Canadian ingredients, with people all across the country raising their tongs to the best of Canada on the grill. There’s no shortage of great Canadian meat and produce available at markets, butcher shops and your grocery store. If you’re thinking of making chicken part of your menu this weekend, we’ve got a few great recipes for you to try. For a taste of the classic, check out our Barbeque Chicken Rub. If something lighter is what you’re craving, try our recipe for Chicken and Bean Burgers as a healthy addition to your barbeque. To participate, there are no rules or fees – just register your barbeque party at http://www.foodday.ca and share your menu with everyone. Be a part of the World’s Longest Barbeque and celebrate the flavours of Canada!