Memphis Prepares for Exciting Second Annual SmokeSlam BBQ Showdown with $250,000 in Prizes!

Memphis Gears Up for Second Annual SmokeSlam BBQ Showdown!

Hey there, Memphis! If you’re a fan of smoky flavors and mouthwatering BBQ, then you’re in for a treat! Team registrations for the 2025 SmokeSlam kicked off this Tuesday afternoon, and let me tell you, it’s shaping up to be a sizzling event.

What’s the Buzz About SmokeSlam?

Dubbed “The World’s Ultimate BBQ Showdown,” this event will take place at Tom Lee Park from May 15–17. Mark your calendars, folks, because it’s happening on the same weekend as the renowned World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest in Liberty Park. How exciting is that?

Last year, nearly 60 teams brought their A-game to the competition, and this year’s event promises to attract even more! Whether you’re an aspiring pitmaster or just want to soak in the amazing atmosphere, there’s something for everyone.

$250,000 in Prizes!

Hold onto your hats, BBQ lovers, because over $250,000 in prize money will be up for grabs over the three-day festival. That’s right, you read that correctly! The competition will focus on major categories including Whole Hog, Ribs, and Pulled Pork, with prizes awarded across 10 places in each category. Talk about some serious bragging rights!

New Categories to Tantalize Your Taste Buds

This year, SmokeSlam is adding even more spice! In addition to the main categories, participants will have the chance to compete in secondary categories like Dessert, Bacon, Duck, Poultry, Beef, Seafood, and Wings. And that’s not all! Exciting new categories include Best Cocktail, Best Team Booth, Best Team T-shirt, and Best Dry Rub. Isn’t that a fun twist?

Winners from each category will also walk away with a “Golden Ticket” granting them the opportunity to compete in the prestigious World Food Championship. Just imagine the glory!

For the Foodies!

If you’re not the competitive type and just prefer being a casual taster, come join the delicious festivities! The Live Fire Extravaganza will feature talented pitmasters cooking over open flames, and you can watch while they whip up some magical meals. Plus, there will be cooking demonstrations and a chance to sample some of the best meats, seafood, and even vegetables straight off the grill. Yum!

Endless Fun for the Family

But wait, there’s more! The festival will also have live music, a Ferris wheel, games, and a bustling market. Who doesn’t love a little bit of excitement? To top it all off, there will be fireworks lighting up the night sky! What a fantastic way to spend the weekend!

Deadline Alert!

Don’t forget, team registrations for SmokeSlam will close on February 19. So, if you’ve got a passion for BBQ and want to be part of this incredible event, now’s the time to sign up!

Gather your friends and family, because SmokeSlam is not just about food; it’s about fun, community, and celebrating our love for BBQ. Prepare to eat, laugh, and make some unforgettable memories!