Originally known as the Southern Pines Blues & BBQ Festival, this annual event combines live country and southern rock music with one of the most popular barbecue competitions in the southeast United State. An open BBQ cooking competition is held with professional and amateur divisions, including a "people's choice" award. The "John Boy & Billy grilling sauce contest" is also held to select the best barbecue sauce. In total, over $15,000 in cash prizes are awarded.

Admission to the event is free, and for a small fee you may sample over 35 different kinds of pulled pork barbecue and help select the People's Choice award. there is also a "Kidz-Que" competition for children ages 6 to 13.

In addition to some of the world's best barbecue, attendees are treated to non-stop entertainment by local and nationally renowned blues, country, and southern rock musicians and bands. The Festival begins on Friday for contestants, and main stage musical performances begin on Friday evening. The event continues on Saturday with live entertainment from noon until the early evening hours.

Other activites held during the festival include arts and crafts booths, an antique car show, and a kid's play area.Activities & Facilities

RestaurantMuseum or Visitor CenterPlaygroundPicnic shelterDogs allowedArts/crafts vendorsLive musicShort hiking trails

• Smokin' in the Pines BBQ Festival official website

Note: The dates of annual events and festivals are subject to change from year to year. Before planning your trip, be sure to check the links above for the actual dates, times, and schedule of activities.