HOPE — The Ninth Annual Smoke on the Square event begins at 4 p.m. Friday and continues at 11 a.m. Saturday, rain or shine, at Hope’s Historic town square.
The free event features teams vying for prestige, cash and other prizes in a barbecue competition featuring pork, ribs, brisket and chicken, said founder and organizer Jeff Yarnell. About 20 teams are expected to participate.
The event also includes live music, a variety of food and a cornhole tournament. The music features Night Owl Country Band on Friday, and Brothers From Different Mothers, the Dallas Cole Band and Jaunty and the Girls on Saturday.
Last year’s gathering attracted about 1,200 people and generated about $6,000 for the nonprofit Community Center of Hope, which serves Flat Rock and Haw Creek townships providing child care, a food bank and other programs. Procees generated via team entree fees and food sales.
Attendees can buy a sample of pulled pork from contestants. They also can purchase a variety of full meals, including a children’s hot dog meal.
Information: hopebbqcontest.com
