Every year, as the warm, vibrant days of summer grace the plains, there emerges a festival unlike any other – the Smoke on the Plains BBQ & Music Fest. This unique blend of savory barbecue competitions and soul-stirring music performances has captured the hearts of foodies, music lovers, and barbecue enthusiasts alike. In this post, we’ll take you through the rich history of the fest, detail the finger-licking contest that lies at its heart, and give you a taste of the musical aura that defines the event.
Get ready for an unforgettable weekend at scenic High Park! Mark your calendars for June 7 and 8, 2024, because we’re bringing you the 13th Annual Smoke on the Plains BBQ & Music Festival. Dive into a weekend packed with fun, food, and foot-tapping music! From live performances on the Mainstage to free activities for kids in the Kids Corner, there’s something for everyone. Sip on refreshing beverages from the Derby Noon Lions Club Beer & Beverage Tent and Shaken or Stirred Bartending all weekend long. Plus, don’t miss out on the sizzling BBQ competitions, including the KCBS Cook-off and the Backyard BBQ Cook-off. See you there!
The Competition
The contest is divided into several categories, ensuring a level playing field for professionals and newcomers. Judges, certified and trained in the art of barbecue, evaluate entries based on appearance, aroma, and taste. The stakes are high, with trophies and cash prizes at stake, but the real prize, as many participants will attest, is the camaraderie and shared passion for barbecue.
Derby Park offers an idyllic setting to spend a weekend outdoors, soaking in the aromas and enjoying the festivities. The verdant woods and pristine lakes provide the perfect backdrop for a competition that is as much a social event as it is a battle of skill.
Melodies That Pair Well With BBQ: The Music
What’s a barbecue without some tunes to sway to? The Smoke on the Plains Fest boasts an eclectic lineup of bands and solo artists that provide the perfect backdrop to the day’s events. From country to blues, rock to folk, there’s something for every musical palette.
Highlights from Last Year
Last year’s fest featured an unforgettable performance by The Smokin’ Bandits, a group known for their husky blues numbers that perfectly complemented the smoky atmosphere of the event. The lineup also included the country-rock vibes of The Grill Masters and the soulful sounds of Patty and the Pulled Pork Players.
What to Expect This Year
This year promises to be even bigger, with headliners that are sure to draw a crowd. While the full lineup is still under wraps, we can reveal that attendees can expect a Grammy-winning artist to grace the stage, along with a host of emerging talents ready to make their mark.
Wrapping Up The Details
The Smoke on the Plains BBQ & Music Fest is THE event; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and the art of barbecue. Whether you’re there to compete, to eat, or simply to enjoy the music, you’re sure to leave with a full stomach and a full heart.
Don’t forget to check out the official website for more details on how to participate in the contest or secure your tickets for the fest. And remember, at the end of the day, it’s not just about who takes home the trophy; it’s about the memories made, the friendships forged, and the love of barbecue that brings us all together. See you on the plains!
Prize Money: $14,940
State Championship
Backyard Prize Total: $,1600
Secondary Contact Person: JUDGE CONTACT: Kim Manring
Phone: 502-225-7769
Email: Ma**************@***il.com
