The Smoke & Ashe Pitmaster Invitational, hosted in the City of Asheboro, will be a “Celebration of Great BBQ & Good Times.” The two-day event will offer a unique collection of special events/activities, vendor displays, food and beverage options and entertainment for the entire family to enjoy.
The event will feature barbecue sampling from some of the region’s top pitmasters including Asheboro’s own Keith Henning of Black Powder Smokehouse.
Date:
April 24-25, 2026
Hours:
Friday: 6:30pm-8:30pm,
Saturday: Noon-4:00pm (Early Admission: 11:00am)
Location:
Friday: Black Powder Smokehouse, Asheboro
Saturday: Bicentennial Park, Asheboro
Tickets:
Start at $25, Click Here For Tickets
For questions or more information, email smokeashe.festival@gmail.com
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS!
TWO SIGNATURE EVENTS!
FRIDAY, APRIL 24: THE PITMASTER DINNER
The inaugural Smoke & Ashe Pitmaster Dinner kicks off two days of great barbecue, fun, and flavor in Asheboro. Hosted at Black Powder Smokehouse by pitmaster Keith Henning, this special evening will treat guests to a full plate of Keith’s signature low-n-slow barbecue, along with satisfying sides and desserts. The night will also feature live entertainment and spirits sampling, creating a lively, laid-back atmosphere to start the celebration. A cash bar will be available throughout the evening.
SATURDAY, APRIL 25: THE SMOKE & ASHE PITMASTER INVITATIONAL
The Pitmaster Invitational will take place in the iconic Bicentennial Park in downtown Asheboro, serving as the premier event in the city’s newest culinary tradition, Smoke in Ashe. This all-day celebration of barbecue will feature five legendary pitmasters from North and South Carolina, each crafting select barbecue samples that highlight the region’s rich smoking traditions. Every ticket includes one barbecue sample and a classic Southern side from each pitmaster, ensuring no one goes home hungry. The event will be rounded out with North Carolina barbecue product vendors, live entertainment, and a selection of craft and domestic beer—making it a full day of flavor, music, and Southern tradition.
PARTICIPATING PITMASTERS
Keith Henning
Black Powder Smokehouse
Asheboro/Jamestown
Lewis Donald
Sweet Lew’s BBQ
Charlotte
Nick Dampf
Dampf Good BBQ
Cary
Claire Calvin
East Of Texas
Winston-Salem
Allen Wilson, Sr.
Unity Barbecue Team
Bennettsville, SC
Presenting Sponsor
Ben E. Keith Co. Foodservice Distributors
Supporting Sponsor
Surry County Wine Trail
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do tickets for Smoke & Ashe work?
Smoke & Ashe is not a barbecue competition. The Pitmaster Invitational in Bicentennial Park is an all-day event featuring five pitmasters, live entertainment, NC product vendors and beer, wine and beverage sales. The general admission ticket ($25.00) will provide one meat and one Southern side item sample from each of the five pitmasters (noon-4 p.m.). The Pig Out ticket ($40.00) allows early admission starting at 11:00 a.m. and includes double samples from each pitmaster.
Children 12 and under tickets are free with a paid adult ticket. Each meat sample size is approximately 4 oz or 20 oz per ticket. A la carte/individual samples will not be sold.
How do I get my Sampling Ticket?
Provide your email receipt or show your purchase via phone at admissions and you will receive a sampling ticket and lanyard for entry. You will present your sampling ticket at each pitmaster location, and you will get your ticket punched.
What are the BBQ offerings?
The pitmasters will each be cooking different BBQ meats which will include beef brisket, pork ribs, pork bbq, chicken. There will be a different side item from each pitmaster as well.
Will there be BBQ sauce and rub vendors?
Yes. You will be able to sample and purchase BBQ sauces and rubs from various vendors.
Is Smoke & Ashe a Family Friendly Event?
Smoke & Ashe is open to all ages and will include a Kids Zone. Children 12 and under receive a FREE “Kids” Sampling ticket with a paid Adult Sampling ticket. You may reserve up to four (4) kids’ tickets for FREE.
Can I purchase tickets at the gate?
Yes, as long as tickets last. The best way to secure your tickets is to purchase in advance online at www.tarheelfestivals.com/smoke-ashe
Can I pay cash or credit?
Both forms of payment will be accepted by most, if not all, vendors and at admissions.
Where should I park Saturday?
Parking is FREE around Bicentennial Park and on Asheboro city streets. Specific parking locations will be published prior to the event.
Is the event handicapped accessible?
The event layout is relatively flat and there is handicapped parking available.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No. Outside food or drink is prohibited at Smoke & Ashe. All items are subject to search at all entry points.
Will alcohol be sold?
Yes, beer, wine and wine will be available for purchase.
Should I bring a chair?
Yes. Patrons wishing to bring their own chairs to listen to music is allowed.
Can I bring my dog to the event?
Dogs are welcome provided they are on a leash and not aggressive.
What happens if it rains?
Smoke & Ashe is a “rain or shine” event.
