SmokeSlam Barbecue Festival: A Guide to the Ultimate BBQ Experience
If you’re a barbecue enthusiast, Memphis, Tennessee, is likely already on your culinary radar. Known as the barbecue capital of the world, this southwestern Tennessee city is famous for its smoky, savory, and sometimes sweet barbecue. Memphis hosts several food festivals that celebrate this beloved cuisine. Among these, the SmokeSlam Barbecue Festival (a Mempho Presents event) stands out as a must-attend event for barbecue lovers. Here’s everything you need to know about experiencing the SmokeSlam Barbecue Festival.
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What is SmokeSlam?
SmokeSlam is an annual barbecue festival held in the heart of Memphis. This three-day event brings together pitmasters from all over the country to compete for bragging rights and prize money, share their skills, and, most importantly, serve up mouth-watering barbecue. From succulent ribs to pulled pork and everything in between, SmokeSlam is a celebration of all things barbecue.
And the fun doesn’t stop with barbecue. SmokeSlam has a schedule of events that includes activities the whole family can enjoy.
When and Where is the SmokeSlam Barbecue Festival?
SmokeSlam 2024 took place on May 16-18, a time when the weather in Memphis is warm but not too hot, perfect for an outdoor food festival. The event is held at Tom Lee Park, a scenic venue along the Mississippi River, offering beautiful views and plenty of space for vendors, competitions, and attendees.
As plans are made for future events, information will be added to the SmokeSlam website.
What to Expect at SmokeSlam?
Smokeslam is not just a weekend of food. You can also expect to see interactive demonstrations, live music, games, and more. Here is a snapshot of what you’ll experience at Smokeslam:
Barbecue Competitions
At the heart of SmokeSlam are the barbecue competitions. Pitmasters compete in several categories, including ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and whole hog. The competition is fierce, and the aromas in the air are enough to make any barbecue lover’s mouth water. Judging is based on taste, tenderness, and appearance, and the winners earn bragging rights as well as substantial prizes.
Food Vendors
While the barbecue competitions are a highlight, the festival also features numerous food vendors that offer a wide range of items like barbecue sauces, seasonings, cookbooks, and other merchandise. This is a great way to highlight local businesses.
Live Music and Entertainment
No Memphis festival would be complete without live music. SmokeSlam features a lineup of local and national bands, playing everything from blues and rock to country and soul. The music adds to the festive atmosphere. Local and national names take the stage to entertain and celebrate this amazing festival.
Cooking Demonstrations and Workshops
For those interested in honing their own barbecue skills, SmokeSlam offers cooking demonstrations and workshops. Learn from celebrity chefs and barbecue legends like Melissa Cookston and Gina Neely. I even got to eat ribs made by the winner of season 2 of Netflix’s Barbecue Showdown, Thyron Mathews who was joined by runner-up, Logan Sandoval.
These experts will share tips and techniques for smoking, grilling, and preparing the perfect barbecue. The sessions are informative and entertaining and just plain fun!
Family-Friendly Activities
SmokeSlam is a family-friendly event with activities for all ages. The event includes designated kids’ zones with games, face painting, and other fun activities to keep young people entertained while parents enjoy the food and festivities. There are even arcade games and a Ferris wheel to make it an inclusive event for everyone.
Tickets and Admission
Tickets for SmokeSlam can be purchased online in advance or at the gate. General admission tickets are available, as well as VIP tickets that offer additional perks. There are options for single-day passes, three-day passes, and weekend passes.
Tips for Attending SmokeSlam
- Arrive Early: To make the most of your day, arrive early to avoid long lines.
- Stay Hydrated: Memphis can be warm in May, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Come Hungry: With so much delicious barbecue to sample, you’ll want to come with an empty stomach and be ready to feast.
- Wear Comfortable Attire: You’ll be walking and standing much of the day, so wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
SmokeSlam Barbecue Festival is more than just a food event; it’s a celebration of Memphis’s rich culinary heritage and community spirit. Whether you’re a barbecue aficionado or just love good food and music, SmokeSlam offers a flavorful, fun-filled experience that captures the essence of Memphis.
Places to Stay Downtown Memphis
Pro Tip: If you’re staying overnight in Memphis, there are several hotels within walking distance of Tom Lee Park.
Here are a few hotels I suggest:
Here are some hotels within a 5-10 minute walk to Tom Lee Park in Memphis, TN, including Hotel Napoleon:
The Westin Memphis Beale Street
- Located near Beale Street, this modern hotel is about a 10-minute walk from Tom Lee Park. It’s perfect for exploring both the park and the vibrant Beale Street area.
Hampton Inn & Suites Memphis-Beale Street
- Just a block away from Beale Street and around a 10-minute walk to Tom Lee Park. This hotel offers convenient access to downtown Memphis and is ideal for both leisure and business stays.
- The iconic historic hotel, known for its daily duck march, is about a 10-minute walk from Tom Lee Park. It offers luxury accommodations and a unique Memphis experience.
Residence Inn Memphis Downtown
- A centrally located hotel, about a 10-minute walk to Tom Lee Park. It offers spacious suites, making it a great option for extended stays.
Hotel Napoleon
- A boutique hotel located in a historic building, Hotel Napoleon is just a 10-minute walk from Tom Lee Park. It combines modern amenities with historic charm, providing a unique stay experience in downtown Memphis.
These hotels offer both proximity to Tom Lee Park and easy access to the rest of downtown Memphis.
