Get ready for a smoky good time at Noccalula Falls

GADSDEN — The Smoke on the Falls BBQ Competition is set to fire up the grills next month at Noccalula Falls Park.

The one-day event is April 12 and promises sizzling competition and free, family-friendly fun.

This year, the heat is turned up with two exciting new categories, making the event bigger and better than ever. Pitmasters from near and far will compete for the title of barbeque champion, showcasing their best ribs, brisket, chicken and pork.

Competitors can also show off their skills in the brand-new categories: That’s Amore-A Cocktail and Pizza Cook-off, celebrating the theme of a football party; and It Ain’t Your Mama’s Recipe-A Dessert Cook-off, encouraging participants to showcase their unique dessert creations.

Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a backyard barbeque enthusiast, this event is the perfect opportunity to show off your skills and enjoy a day filled with great food and community spirit.

There are also two divisions for the youth, ages 5 to 9 years old and 10 to 15 years old. Registration is available at gadsden.recdesk.com.

Smoke on the Falls is free to the public and everyone is invited to stroll around and soak in the barbeque vibes while checking out the local specialty food trucks and vendors. Live music fires up on the Adams Beverage Stage from the Tim Roberts Band from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. The awards ceremony follows at 4:30 p.m.

Sponsored by Adams Beverage, Johnson’s Giant Food, Exchange Bank, Buffalo Rock and Big Poppa Smokers, the event is held at the newly renovated Noccalula Falls Campground, 1500 Noccalula Road in Gadsden.

Gates open at 11 a.m. and wraps up at the conclusion of the awards ceremony.