Memphis’ new BBQ showdown is almost here
What to expect at Smokeslam
The smell of barbecue will soon be wafting through the streets of Downtown Memphis once again.
The first Smokeslam barbecue festival will debut in Memphis at Tom Lee Park. The three-day festival, dubbed the “World’s Ultimate BBQ Showdown.” takes place May 16-18 and will play host to people from across the country with activities for the whole family.
In addition to the barbecue competition, fans can enjoy samples of barbecue dishes during the Live Fire experience, enjoy carnival activities like arcade games and a Ferris wheel, and watch nightly concerts.
Here are six things to know if you are planning to attend the 2024 contest.
The competition at Smokeslam
Smokeslam competitors will compete in three categories: Whole Hog, Ribs and Pulled Pork. Teams will be vying for a purse of $250,000.
Smokeslam is a Memphis Barbecue Network-sanctioned event where teams can compete in all three major categories, plus an assortment of ancillary contests. Category winners will be eligible for a “Golden Ticket” to compete in the World Food Championships in the fall. The World Food Championships will be sanctioning all ancillary competitions on May 16 and 17.
Of the 57 teams selected to participate, 30 will compete in all three championship pork categories.
The registered teams come from 11 states and include Rebel Roasters,” who came out of retirement to participate in Smokeslam, I Only Smoke When I Drink, an all-female team from Nashville, and champion pitmasters such as Marcio Borguezan with Hog Addiction.
The barbecue competition will culminate in an awards ceremony the evening of May 18 hosted by Michelle Buteau, comedian, actress and host of “BBQ Showdown” on Netflix.
How to get a taste of championship barbecue
The B&B Charcoal: Live Fire Extravaganza will offer live demonstrations from renowned barbecue professionals throughout each day, each with a focus on backyard grilling essentials such as steaks, chicken, veggies and more. Spectators will also get to enjoy samples at each demo.
The Live Fire Extravaganza will showcase the talents and culinary skills of barbecue professionals like Al Frugoni (Open Fire Cooking), Derek Wolf (Over the Fire Cooking), John Lindsey (All Q'ed Up), Mike Starr (Blazing Star BBQ), and Nashville award-winning barbecue restaurant Peg Leg Porkers.
On the menu are dishes like Tri-tip Steak with Chimichurri, Marrakesh Street Tacos, Jerk Chicken, BBQ Shrimp & Grits and Backyard Ribs. Vegetarian grilled items will also be offered.
Meet, greet and shop at Smokeslam
Smokeslam will offer attendees the chance to meet some of the country's top pitmasters, as well as take home a wide array of barbecue sauces, rubs cookbooks and gear. The National Barbecue Association BBQ Bazaar will be open from 2-8 p.m. each day, featuring a wide array of vendors showcasing products and offering samples. Included will be a selection of sauces and rubs from Smokeslam competitors, as well as several Memphis barbecue restaurants.
Expect demonstrations, book signings and products from the likes of B&B Charcoal, Al Frugoni, Tuffy Stone, Myron Mixon, Melissa Cookston, John Lindsey, Thyron Matthews, Mike Starr, Peg Leg Porkers, Ray Sheehan and Food Network Champions Erica Roby and Lil' Gringa Rae Barker.
Pro tip: Smokeslam is a cashless event, so plan to bring a credit card for purchases.
Entertainment at Smokeslam
This family-friendly event will include arcade games, a Ferris wheel and a carrousel. There is also a pickleball experience that will be held Tom Lee Park's Sunset Canopy.
Live concerts will be held each night. The schedule includes:
h May 16: Mixtape: Featuring Tone Loc, Rob Base, Young MC and DJ M. Walk. Mustache the Band and Noisy Cats are We will also perform.
h May 17: War, The Bar-kays and Hope Clayburn's Soul Scrimmage.
h May 18: St. Paul and The Broken
Bones will be headlining after the barbecue contest awards are announced. Also performing are the Smokeslam Players and the Memphis Harvest Band.
Fireworks will close out the festival each night, beginning around 10:15.
Pro tip: If planning on bringing a purse, fanny pack or a small back pack, make sure it's clear. Only clear bags are allowed inside the festival grounds.
Where to park for Smokeslam
There is only one official parking lot dedicated to parking for the contest. Parking passes for this lot near the South entrance are available online at smokeslam.com for $40 per day, or $99 for a three-day pass. Advance purchase is recommended as there is limited space in this lot.
Parking is also available throughout Downtown Memphis and close to Tom Lee Park in paid lots, garages and on the street.
Smokeslam will have two entrances; the South Gate and the North Gate are both located on Riverside Drive.
A designated share-ride drop-off and pick up location is near the South Gate.
Pro tip: Have cash on hand for a paid lot in case you are unable to find free street parking. Most lots charge $20 per day.
How to get tickets to Smokeslam
It's best to purchase tickets online in advance at smokeslam.com.
Single-day general admission tickets are $24.99 and three-day passes are $65.
The VIP three-day tickets, which include access to a VIP lounge and VIP experiences, are $599. Single-day VIP tickets are available for $240.
Pro tip: Tickets will be available at the gate, but only attendees with advance purchase tickets are guaranteed admission if the park reaches capacity.