It’s almost time again—time for one of the biggest barbecue-enthusiast events in all the region. It’s Smoke on the Rail in New Freedom, Pennsylvania. A vibrant community festival of annual acclaim, Smoke on the Rail is more than just a jovial get-together; it does double duty by playing host to the Pennsylvania State BBQ Championship.
More than 80 competing teams from the Mid-Atlantic and beyond are drawn to the event each year, all vying for a chance to earn more than $24,000 in cash prizes. Grand prize winners even get the chance to compete at the annual Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational Barbecue, which takes place in Lynchburg, Tennessee, and the American Royal in Kansas City, Missouri.
The festival’s founding mission is first and foremost to provide an engaging community event that draws folks out and initially encourages visitors to explore the hidden gem charm of New Freedom town life and local businesses. And what better way to do so than to carry out a highly enjoyable summertime barbecue experience in proximity to the town’s most renowned featured claim to fame—the historic railroad? Even better, all proceeds raised will go towards the ongoing development of a dynamic new Trail Town Community.
In addition to tantalizing your taste buds with savory samples and perhaps competing in the cookoff yourself, the festival’s three-day run promises a wide range of other highlights. There will be onsite food trucks to provide alternate options in the way of nourishing refreshments when you need a break from the BBQ. If you’re part of the over-21 crowd, take note of some sensational spirited suggestions, including beer and adult slushies.
As an all-age celebration, younger attendees have their fair share of delightful activities to dive into, including yard games and various ongoing recreational endeavors throughout the park.
Live music will keep the scene hopping, providing a perfect balance of ongoing entertainment and ambiance. And as the ultimate small-business highlight topper, take note of the versatile vendor lineup, ranging in products and services of all kinds.
As for the main event, the lineup includes various competing times, judging categories, and other selective options. As an attendee, you get to personally take part in the voting with select People’s Choice Award categories. Click here to view the complete event schedule.
Smoke on the Rails opens on Friday, July 24, at 5 p.m. and will run until 9:30 p.m. The event opens on Saturday, July 25, at 11 a.m. and will stay in full swing through 9:30 p.m. The final day gets underway at noon on Sunday, July 26, running until the 5 p.m. closing time.
The festival will be held at Marge Goodfellow Park, at 1 Playground Alley, New Freedom, Pennsylvania. Parking onsite is free. Additional free shuttle services will run throughout the weekend from New Freedom Community Center on 150 East Main Street. Learn more about Smoke on the Rails on the official website at www.smokeontherail.com.