Chili cook-off
Sample a lineup that runs from friendly and mild to full-on spicy, all made by local and regional teams.
Food & competitions
The smoke is the signal.
Whole-hog barbecue, pots of homemade chili and more than 30 competitive cookers bring the flavor to Washington's waterfront.
2026 Title Sponsor
WTA Warehouse Tire & Automotive
Keeping Washington rolling—and helping keep festival admission free.
Smoke on the Water proudly thanks WTA for powering this year’s riverfront celebration. Their generous support helps Washington Noon Rotary bring two days of barbecue, music and family fun to the whole community.
TiresBatteriesAutomotive service
Visit WTA
Carolina barbecue on the PamlicoThe main event
Whole-hog cook-off
Smoke on the Water is a Natural Source State Championship in the Carolina Barbecue League. Competitive cookers tend their pigs through the night before Saturday morning judging.
Once judging is complete, the pigs are chopped and served to the public. Get there early—the barbecue is one of the weekend’s biggest traditions.
Bring your appetite
More ways to eat well
Festival vendors
Explore food trucks and festival vendors across the waterfront throughout Friday evening and Saturday.
VendorsBBQ to go
Pick up a barbecue sandwich at the festival or use the convenient drive-through barbecue option on Saturday.
Keep exploring