small town

smoke

down

bassano, ab
may 29 - 31

small town

smoke

down

bassano, ab
may 29 - 31

Bassano, Alberta

Small Town

Smoke Down 2026

May 29 – 31, 2026

Fire up the grills and get ready for Bassano’s 5th Annual Small Town Smoke Down! This premier KCBS sanctioned professional BBQ competition brings together pitmasters, backyard BBQ enthusiasts, and food lovers for a weekend packed with smoky flavors, live entertainment, and small-town charm. Whether you’re competing, sponsoring, vending, or just coming to enjoy the festivities, this is an event you don’t want to miss!

Event Schedule

Check out the full lineup of competitions, entertainment, and activities happening all weekend.

May 29 – 31, 2026

Bassano,Alberta

Small Town Smoke Down 2026

Sponsorship Opportunities

Support the Small Town Smoke Down, an unforgettable event that brings people together, celebrates local talent, and showcases the best of the Newell Region. Select a sponsorship level that suits your business and enjoy exclusive perks, branding opportunities, and front-row access to all the action!.

Vendor Application

Want to showcase your products or serve up delicious eats at our Street Market on May 30, 2026? Secure your vendor spot and be part of this exciting event!

BECOME A
CERTIFIED JUDGE

We are looking for local people to judge the 2026 Small Town Smoke Down BBQ contest. You can become a certified BBQ Judge by taking the KCBS Judge Training Class. BBQ on the Bow is hosting the only Alberta KCBS Judge Training Class in the Calgary area on Wednesday May 27, 2026 (6PM to 10PM). They will also have a Table Captain class for current CBJ’s.

Small Town Smoke Down 2026

Events Registration

Show Up and Show Off Auto Show

Show off your ride! Classic cars, muscle cars, and custom builds are all welcome. Door prizes, swag, awards, and more.

May 30, 2026

From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Online registration until May 24, 2026. Onsite registration 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Online registration until May 14, 2026. Onsite registration 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Pro BBQ Competition

Are you ready to battle it out for BBQ glory? Professional registration is taken through our partner, BBQ on the Bow, a not-for-profit organization that aims to bring their love of BBQ to small communities in Alberta.

May 29 - 31, 2026

Register until May 15, 2026

Kids Q Competition

A chance for young grillers to show off their BBQ skills! Open to kids who love to cook and compete. Sponsored by Bassano Family and Community Support Services.

May 30, 2026

From 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Amateur Steak Cook-Off

Showdown between neighbours and backyard BBQ enthusiasts! Enter our Amateur Steak Cook-Off and put your grilling skills to the test.

May 30, 2026

From 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Small Town Smoke Down 2026

Dinner & Music Ticket Information

Enjoy a mouthwatering BBQ dinner prepared by the Bassano Masonic Lodge, a delectable dessert prepared by Bassano Willing Workers, and live music offered by the Bassano Arts Council.

Get your tickets before they sell out!

May 29, 2026 · From 5:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.