I admit, this caught me by surprise. A glorious, tasty surprise, but a surprise none-the-less. Did you know that we’re right smack in the middle of Meat Week?

Yeah, Meat Week- the holiday during which barbecue is eaten every night of the week. Born from the boredom of two Floridian co-workers, MW began in 2005 and now consists of 16 chapters around the country. And thanks to Mike Bober, Jenelle Dennis and David Gootzit, we’re in the midst of the inaugural DC Meat Week.

While the first few days are in the books, the remaining schedule is still ready for the eating. Tonight, Meat Weekers will be feasting at Mango Mike’s in Alexandria (7 p.m.), on Thursday at Capital Q in Chinatown (7 p.m.), then Friday at Branded 72 Pit Barbecue in Rockville (7 p.m.), Saturday will be at Mr. P’s Ribs & Fish in northeast D.C. (3 p.m.), and Sunday is a free day– as long as you enjoy some ‘cue during your Super Bowl party.

If you can’t make any of the spots on the list, you could still munch in MW solidarity at some of Falls Church’s tasty joints (Red, Hot & Blue or Bubba’s BBQ, anyone?) Perhaps, an F.C. Meat Week chapter is in the cards…

What: DC Meat Week

When: Now though Sunday, February 7

Where: BBQ Spots Throughout the D.C. area

See www.meatweekisreal.com/chapters/washingtondc for more info on Meat Week