USA Barbecue Championship is the World’s Richest Contest

America’s Best Barbecue Teams. World’s Richest Contests!

Smoke on the Water Productions is the fastest growing festival franchise in the world hosting barbecue competitions across the US attracting North America's top ranked  professional cook teams and 40,000 visitors per event.

From humble beginnings in 2001 with a $5,000 purse, to the richest contest in the world today, Smoke on the Water currently offers over $400,000 in prize money with events in Arkansas – North Little Rock, Hot Springs and Springdale, at Isle of Capri Casino in Lula, Mississippi, plus major NASCAR speedways at Talladega, Daytona, Michigan and Phoenix.

“Smoke on the Water was created to bring the best barbecuers in the world to our competitions,” organizer Ron Cates said. “To be the best, you have to beat the best. It’s that simple.’

The family fun festivals also feature a barbecue expo, national musical acts, large carnival, car show, vintage motorcycles, arts & crafts, kids play zone, great food and hot air balloon rides.