Second Annual SmokeSlam Festival Returns to Tom Lee Park May 15-17, 2025 MEMPHIS, Tenn. , Nov. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Mempho Presents, the organizers of SmokeSlam, today announced team registration for 'The World's Ultimate BBQ Showdown' is now open.
The three-day event will take place from May 15-17, 2025 , at Tom Lee Park and is expected to reach capacity. Due to overwhelming demand last year, SmokeSlam has increased the number of teams accepted. Additionally, SmokeSlam organizers are excited to announce the participation of BBQ Hall of Famer and World Champion Melissa Cookston as 'SmokeSlam Allstar' for the event.
In addition to her role as official spokesperson, Cookston will also be returning with her organization, the World Junior BBQ League (WJBL). The WJBL is a nonprofit dedicated to empowering teenagers through the world of competition barbecue, and teams will be competing for $25,000 in prize money. "I've been privileged to experience the incredible world of competition BBQ for over 20 years, and I'm thrilled to partner with SmokeSlam to share that passion with others," said Melissa Cookston .
"SmokeSlam is more than just a competition—it's a celebration of barbecue culture, bringing together pitmasters, fans, and food lovers alike. I look forward to representing SmokeSlam and shining a spotlight on everything the event has to offer, from the hard work of the World Junior BBQ League competitors to the delicious food served at the Live Fire Extravaganza, the incr.