BBq Challenge
On November 7th, 2026 Keswick Sensory is proud to host our third annual BBQ Challenge. Returning to our panel this year is none other than Chef Dylan Benoit of Fire Masters’ fame. Prizes will be awarded based on both the chefs’ choice and the crowd’s favorite with the grand prize winner taking home a grill! Not only will the teams be judged on their BBQ skills, but an added surprise challenge will be announced on the day of the competition. New this year, we will be offering a chance to experience the farm in new and exciting ways for participants including plenty of activities for kids! Fun and games; food and drinks, this is an event you won’t want to miss!
Thank you to our sponsors!
Event Details
November 7th, 2026
Location
2690 Paddock Wood Rd, Keswick, VA 22947
Schedule of Events
12:00 Gates Open
12:00 - 12:30 Intro to Keswick Sensory
12:30 - 2:00 Fall Festival
2:00 - 4:30 BBQ Challenge
4:30 Dinner and Judging
5:30 Awards
Including
Animal Interactions
Bounce House
Face Painting
Live Music
Surprise Challenge
And More
Featuring live music performed by the Bill Foley Band!
Donate to our teams
Meet the Judges
Chef Ryan Kelchner
I am the pitmaster and creator behind Southern Dance BBQ, a passion project built around live-fire cooking, quality ingredients, and the belief that barbecue is both a craft and a uniquely personal form of expression meant to be shared.
What began with backyard cooks has taken me to become an accomplished pitmaster competing on the national stage. Along the way, I have had the privilege of cooking alongside the most talented pitmasters in the country and working with leading brands.
My most meaningful cooks, however, have had little to do with trophies. I have cooked in support of charitable organizations and most importantly, for family and friends. Giving back to the community, teaching, and sharing the craft of barbecue with others has been central to the Southern Dance BBQ ethos since its inception. When I’m not cooking or tending a smoker, I work as a defense technology executive.
I am honored to join the judges’ table for the Keswick Sensory Annual BBQ Challenge, combining my love of barbecue with the opportunity to support Keswick Sensory and its mission of creating welcoming, sensory-friendly experiences where children and families can learn, explore, and thrive.
Chef Dylan Benoit
My name is Dylan Benoit and I am a professional chef, perpetual traveller, avid storyteller and the host of Food Network Canada’s show Fire Masters. I am driven by three things, FOOD, TRAVEL & CREATING and these passions fuel me daily. Cooking has been a passion since I was a child and these days I have a private chef and catering company based in the Cayman Islands called Prime Kitchen. When I’m not cooking for clients on the beach I’m usually traveling the world increasing my repertoire and expanding my horizons. I love to study cuisines and cultures from around the globe and I’ve been fortunate enough to have them published in various magazines and periodicals.
Chef Dylan runs several restaurants based in the Cayman Islands including Carnivore Butchershop and Lucky Rabbit
Somm Sean Rouch
I am the Wine Director for Keswick Hall and Marigold restaurant. A native of California, I began my career with the Grand Award wine program at Spago Beverly Hills. I have worked in this capacity in Del Mar, Chapel Hill, and Atlanta before arriving in beautiful Virginia.
I am an Advanced Sommelier and Advanced level WSET and a graduate of Miami University.
I enjoy all types and styles of wine; favorites include Champagne, Burgundy and Riesling. I am the father of two daughters and live with my wife Erica in Charlottesville.