Memphis in May & SmokeSlam: A Tale of Two BBQ Titans

Bre Via writes about her experiences at both events and what sets them apart from each other.

Bre Via, who leads the Smoke 'n Magic competition BBQ team, writes this week's guest article. With a mission to make the smoke and magic of BBQ approachable for everyone, Smoke 'n Magic is known for its family-made, competition-tested sauces and rubs. Whether on the competition stage or in the backyard, Bre and her team bring a touch of magic to every BBQ experience. If you want to write for The Smoke Sheet, please get in touch.

Memphis, Tennessee, is world-famous for its rich barbecue heritage, and each May, the city becomes the epicenter of the BBQ universe as it hosts two premier events: the Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest (WCBCC) and the SmokeSlam BBQ Festival. While both celebrate the craft of barbecue, each brings its own unique flavor, offering distinct experiences for competitors and the public alike.

Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest (WCBCC)

First held in 1978 with just 26 teams, the WCBCC has grown into the largest pork barbecue competition in the world. Now featuring more than 250 teams from around the globe, it is the crown jewel of the Memphis in May International Festival. Each year, thousands of attendees descend on the city to witness elite pitmasters compete for top honors in categories like Whole Hog, Ribs, and Shoulder. The event garners major media coverage from outlets like the BBC and Food Network, underscoring its global prestige.

2025 Competition Results

• Grand Champion: Heath Riles BBQ

• Whole Hog: Will Be Que

• Ribs: Heath Riles BBQ

• Shoulder: Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q

The 2025 contest welcomed 129 teams from 22 states and four countries, with competitors vying for a share of the impressive $150,000 prize pool.

Public Engagement Highlights

WCBCC offers immersive and educational experiences for barbecue fans of all levels:

• Kingsford Tour of Champions – A guided tasting and judging experience.

• BBQ Alley – Sample signature dishes from award-winning pitmasters.

• Cooker Caravan – A behind-the-scenes tour led by renowned pitmaster Heath Riles.

• Home Depot Outdoor Kitchen – Live cooking demonstrations from celebrity grill masters.

• Barbecue Marketplace – Shop sauces, rubs, gear, and team merch.

SmokeSlam BBQ Festival

A bold newcomer to the Memphis barbecue scene, SmokeSlam debuted in 2024 and quickly made waves. Held at the beautifully redeveloped Tom Lee Park, SmokeSlam blends the thrill of competition with a vibrant, family-friendly festival atmosphere. The 2025 event featured 57 teams across seven competition categories, with over $250,000 in prize money, cementing its place as a top-tier BBQ showdown.

2025 Competition Results

• Grand Champion: Rescue Smokers

• Ribs: Fireside Smokers

• Pulled Pork: Rescue Smokers

• Whole Hog: Fireman John's BBQ

• Seafood: I Only Smoke When I Drink

• Poultry: Sicillian Smoker's

• Wings: BBQ Team

• Dry Rub: Sweet Cheeks BBQ

• Duck: Smokin' On The River

• Bacon: Hotty Totty BBQ Dream Team

• Beef: Smoked N Spiced

• Cocktail: Robinson Smokehouse

• Dessert: Hotty Totty BBQ Dream Team

SmokeSlam also showcased the World Junior BBQ League, awarding $5,000 to young aspiring pitmasters and reinforcing the event’s commitment to fostering the next generation of BBQ talent. This year’s Junior top winner was Totally Bodacious BBQ.

Public Engagement Highlights

SmokeSlam is designed with inclusivity and entertainment in mind, offering:

• Live Music – Performances from top regional and national artists.

• Live Fire Extravaganza – High-energy demos and tastings from BBQ pros.

• NBBQA BBQ Bazaar & Memphis Market – Artisan products and culinary goods from celebrity chefs and local makers.

• Carnival Attractions – A Ferris wheel, games, and rides for families.

Our Experiences at Both Events

This year, Brad and I had the incredible opportunity to be part of both SmokeSlam and Memphis in May—two of the most distinct and exhilarating BBQ events we’ve ever experienced.

At SmokeSlam, we were thrilled to participate in the Live Fire Extravaganza alongside the National Barbecue & Grilling Association (NBBQA). It was a weekend filled with dynamic demos, VIP events, and one-on-one interactions with the public. The vibe was electric—fresh, inclusive, and brimming with creative energy. It felt like a festival for all BBQ lovers, where everyone was welcome around the fire.

Transitioning to Memphis in May, we showcased our pork tenderloin during a cooking demo on the Home Depot Stage. The atmosphere there was different—more traditional, focused, and reverent. It’s a space where you can feel the weight of barbecue history in every bite. The sense of camaraderie among teams and the shared passion for the craft created a truly memorable experience.

Both events offer something truly unique. SmokeSlam embraces the future of barbecue with innovation and accessibility, while Memphis in May honors the legacy and craftsmanship that define the art of BBQ. Being part of both was a privilege and a celebration of everything we love about this community.

Bre Via
Smoke ‘n Magic BBQ Team