October 10-11, 2025 | Lake Shawnee Campground, Topeka, KS
Presented by Shawnee County Parks + Recreation
Get ready for a weekend packed with flavor, fire and fun at Smoke on the Water, Topeka’s ultimate lakeside barbecue competition! Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster, backyard BBQ enthusiast or just here for the mouthwatering food and good vibes, this two-day festival has something for everyone.
Register Online Here
Kansas City Barbeque Society Information
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Competitions:
KCBS Master’s Series BBQ Contest
Test your skills against top-tier teams in this Kansas City Barbecue Society-sanctioned competition.
• Entry Fee: $275 per team
• Includes full hookup campsite for Friday night
• Categories: Chicken (Noon), Ribs (12:30 p.m.), Pork Butt (1 p.m.), Brisket (1 p.m.)
• Optional early check-in (Thursday) and late check-out (Sunday) available for an additional fee
Outlaw Backyard BBQ Contest
A perfect fit for passionate amateurs looking to show off their grill game.
• Entry Fee: $150 per team
• Includes basic campsite for Friday night
• Categories: Chicken (Noon), Ribs (12:30 p.m.)
• Unsanctioned but full of flavor and bragging rights
People’s Choice Contest: Pulled Pork, Sides and Desserts (Tentative)
Let the public crown the king (or queen) of BBQ.
• $25 entry
• Teams serve 2 oz portions (approx. 50 lbs raw meat recommended for 200 servings)
• Guests receive 3 voting tickets
• Top 20% of vote-getters win a share of the 100% cash payout pot
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Festival Fun – Open to the Public
Friday Night Kick-Off Party
Friday, October 10 | 6-10 p.m.
New this year, Friday night is open to the public!
• Live music
• BBQ and food trucks
• Retail vendors
• Cold drinks and a family-friendly atmosphere
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BBQ Classes
We're spicing things up with some hands-on learning. Learn techniques from experienced pitmasters in special BBQ classes offered throughout the weekend. (Full schedule and registration info coming soon.)
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Vendors Welcome
We’re offering two vendor size options for food and retail booths. Whether you’re selling handmade goods or delicious eats, join the action and reach hundreds of hungry, happy visitors. (Details and applications coming soon).
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Make It a Weekend
While you're here, enjoy all that Lake Shawnee has to offer:
• Lake Shawnee Golf Course
• Ted Ensley Gardens
• Fishing, paddling, scenic trails and more!
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Key Times & Info
• Team Check-In: Friday, October 10 at 8:00 a.m.
• Awards Ceremony: Saturday, October 11 at 3:00 p.m. (tentative)
• Optional early check-in: Thursday, October 9 at 2:00 p.m.
• Optional late check-out: Sunday, October 12 by Noon
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Registration & Contact
Contact: Dustyn Whyte
dustyn.whyte@snco.us
785-251-6881
Register online, by phone or in person at any Shawnee County Parks + Recreation location. Stay tuned to our website for updates, vendor info, contest registration and more.
