The possibilities are pretty wide open, sounds like a really fun time. I agree that KC should be BBQ, because it is KC. You could start with a moment of silence to remember Arthur Bryant then pour the meat to the bread.

Carolina is going to need mustard and slaw and vinegar based sauce. Sand Diego? Mahi Mahi might work. There is some serious Q done in Oakland and Cincinnati ought to have some Skyline Chili once.

I'm thinking you could have some serious fun and serious eating to do this season. Both are a good thing.