Welcome to Lovington! Smokin’ on the Plaza: The BBQ Festival You Can’t Miss!
Get ready for a sizzling good time in the heart of Lovington, New Mexico, where the best BBQ takes center stage at Smokin’ on the Plaza. This two-day festival, which has been a beloved tradition since 2010, is 100% free to attend — no tickets required! It’s the ultimate gathering for BBQ lovers, grill masters, and families looking for a weekend of fun, flavor, and entertainment.
What started as a small cook-off has exploded into a full-blown BBQ extravaganza! Featuring live music, family-friendly activities, and mouthwatering food, Smokin’ on the Plaza is the place to be this year. Whether you’re a seasoned BBQ enthusiast or a first-timer, you’ll be treated to some of the best grilling in New Mexico.
The heart of the festival is our State Championship BBQ Cook-Off, a prestigious IBCA-sanctioned event where grill masters from near and far compete for a chance to claim the title and take home a $10,000 cash prize. The competition is fierce, with cooks required to follow strict IBCA rules and turn in their finest pork spareribs, brisket slices, and a perfectly cooked half chicken.
But that’s not all! The winning team gets a shot at competing in the Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational BBQ, one of the most coveted BBQ competitions in the world. Whether you’re here to compete or just to eat, the action is nonstop, and the smoky, savory smells will keep you coming back for more.
So grab your family, friends, and an empty stomach — Smokin’ on the Plaza is more than just a BBQ festival; it’s a celebration of flavor, community, and the love of great food. Come for the cook-off, stay for the fun!
ABOUT THE ORGANIZERS
Smokin’ on the Plaza is hosted by Lovington MainStreet, a 501©3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to revitalize the downtown district of Lovington, New Mexico. As a grassroots organization, they provide services and support to small and emergent businesses and district property owners. LMS does not charge fees or membership.
Lovington MainStreet receives funding through donations, sponsorships, grants, and government contracts. Increasing funds means more services, programs, improvements, and events in Lovington—this is how Smokin’ on the Plaza got its start! LMS has sponsorship packages available through their Community Partners program, which provides business marketing and promotion for participating sponsors. The organization also accepts volunteers and in-kind donations.
All contributions to LMS are tax-deductible. Check out the Lovington MainStreet website at lovingtonmainstreet.org for more information.
