SmokeSlam Welcomes Dozens of Brilliant BBQ Teams from Across the Nation
Memphis, Tennessee โ On the riverfront of Memphis, nearly 60 expert BBQ teams gear up for an exhilarating three-day festival called SmokeSlam. This year, the river bank of Tom Lee Park will be engulfed in the goodness of barbecue as teams from across the nation compete for the champion’s title and the grand prize of this inaugural event.
The Smoking Hot Competition
Organized for the first time by the creators of the Mempho Music Fest, it seems SmokeSlam has surpassed its expectations. Initially planned to accommodate 35 teams, the event now boasts of 59 exceptional teams all set to battle it out. SmokeSlam announced its dates from May 16th to the 18th, making it a direct competitor with Memphis in May’s World Championship BBQ Cooking Contest, which also happens the same weekend.
SmokeSlam’s Riverfront BBQ bonanza seems to be quite alluring though. With an unprecedented cash prize of $250,000, it has currently claimed the title for the largest payout for a BBQ contest in America.
The Blaze of BBQ Glory
Of the 59 selected teams, 32 of them will be testing their prowess in all three key categories: Whole Hog, Ribs, and Pulled Pork. The coveted grand prize for the champion stands at a tantalizing $65,000.
But it’s not just the teams who seem to be geared up for some intense BBQ action. The general public is also invited to partake in this experience. On purchasing their tickets, civilians can taste various barbecue products and championship style BBQ cooked by the competing teams themselves. Fireworks and music are also assured to keep up the festive ambiance.
Memphis Soul on Display
The festival isn’t just about the competition and the food; it’s also about celebrating the spirit of Memphis. In addition to the heavy-hitting aromas of smoking BBQ, the event also promises a full entertainment package with music from local Memphis-based bands along with some spectacular fireworks.
While the general admission ticket prices have not been released yet, the enthusiasm and excitement for the event is already high. The great American BBQ tradition, coupled with local music and a chance to witness a world-class competition, makes this event a must-visit for fans of the culinary arts and good times.
Charred, smoked, and glazed to perfection, the stakes are high, and the grills are even hotter at SmokeSlam. As the sparks fly, and the sauces sizzle, May 16- 18th, Tom Lee Park is the place to be to experience the finest of BBQ food culture.
In a city that loves its meat smoked low and slow, this BBQ competition is sure to set hearts and hearths aflare. Memphis – get ready to smoke the competition!
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
