TURN UP THE HEAT ON THE CREEK
Competitors
Think your BBQ can stand the heat? Competitor applications open Wednesday, April 1 at 9:00 AM
Smokin’ on the Creek is an amateur backyard BBQ competition bringing together local pitmasters for a fun, fair, and flavorful day on the waterfront in Deale, Maryland. This is not a KCBS-sanctioned event. Smokin’ on the Creek is designed specifically for amateur backyard cooks. Professional caterers and established competition teams are not eligible and will be disqualified. This event is all about fun, fair competition and showcasing local backyard talent. Competitor applications open Wednesday, April 1 at 9:00 AM and spots are limited.
Vendors
We’re looking for food vendors, artisans, and local businesses to be part of a fun, well-attended BBQ festival.
Smokin’ on the Creek is a community-driven BBQ festival celebrating local food, small businesses, and backyard BBQ talent on the waterfront in Deale, MD. This event attracts a high-energy crowd ready to eat, shop, and support local businesses. Vendor registration opens Wednesday, April 1 at 9:00 AM. Space is limited and spots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis once approved.
Family Fun
Bring the family, enjoy the day, and make Smokin’ on the Creek a tradition everyone can enjoy!
Smokin’ on the Creek is more than just great BBQ—it’s a family-friendly festival with activities for all ages. Families can enjoy live music, kid-friendly attractions, and interactive activities throughout the day, making it a perfect outing for the whole crew. From rides and games to hands-on fun and sweet treats, there’s plenty to keep the kids entertained while parents relax, enjoy the food, and take in the waterfront vibes. Activities and attractions will be available throughout the event, with more details to be announced as we get closer.
Sponsors
Join us as a sponsor and help make Smokin’ on the Creek an unforgettable event.
Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses looking to gain strong brand visibility, connect with a loyal local audience, and support a meaningful cause. Sponsors receive exposure throughout the event, including on-site signage, digital promotion, and recognition during event announcements. Smokin’ on the Creek proudly benefits Project Deale, a nonprofit dedicated to giving back to Southern Anne Arundel County. Sponsoring this event means aligning your business with a community-driven festival that celebrates local talent, small businesses, and good times on the creek.
Judges
Calling all BBQ lovers! We will begin taking judge applications on Wednesday, May 1 at 9:00 AM.
Smokin’ on the Creek is seeking enthusiastic BBQ lovers to serve as judges for our amateur backyard BBQ competition on the waterfront in Deale, Maryland. Judges will sample and score a variety of dishes prepared by local backyard pitmasters in a fun, organized, and fair judging environment. No professional judging experience is required—just a love for great BBQ and a willingness to provide thoughtful, unbiased feedback. Judge applications open Wednesday, May 1 at 9:00 AM. Space is limited.
What started as a small backyard-style BBQ competition has grown into something bigger than we ever imagined. As we celebrate our 8th year, we’re incredibly grateful for the amazing support from our community — the competitors, vendors, sponsors, volunteers, and every single person who shows up to make this day special.
Thank you for helping us turn a simple idea into one of Deale’s favorite traditions.
We couldn’t do it without you.
