1 of 10

David Grandy was awarded best barbecue used with a gas cooker. Grandy (right) received the award from Barbecue judge, Brownie Futrell. (Photo courtesy of Henry Capogna)

Sam Summerlin takes the award for best chili at this year’s Smoke on the Water. He stands with Brownie Futrell. (Photo courtesy of Henry Capogna)

State Champions and winners of the traditional barbecue competition, Kevin Peterson and Andy Harrison stand on either side of barbecue judge Brownie Futrell. (Photo courtesy of Henry Capogna)

Holly Morgan/WDN

Holly Morgan/WDN

Holly Morgan/WDN

Holly Morgan/WDN

Holly Morgan/WDN

Holly Morgan/WDN

Holly Morgan/WDN

Last weekend, downtown Washington was filled with spectators oohing and aahing over classic cars or standing in line waiting, hoping to try the winning barbecue and/or chili during Smoke on the Water. 

According to event organizer Pam Anderson, it was one of the biggest years – drawing in about $30,000 which will be distributed to local charities. 

Smoke on the Water is an annual, two-day event hosted by the Washington Noon Rotary. There are two barbeque competitions – gas cookers and the State Championship for traditional cooking with either wood or charcoal. The competitions are part of the Whole Hog Barbecue Series. 

 Loading ...

This year’s winners for gas cooking were David Grandy (first place), Wesley Bowers (second place and a Washington native), Chris Fineran (third place) and Tricia Harrison (fourth place). State Championship winners were; Kevin Peterson and Andy Harrison (they shared first place), DJ Stox (second place), Mark Copeland (third place) and Thomas Spruill (fourth place). 

In the chili competition, Sam Summerlin took first place while Amber Dexter took second and Logan Woolard took third. 

In addition to the competitions, a classic car show was held with an estimated 175 cars as well as local vendors and live music.

More News

Manatee, spotted earlier in Pamlico River, rescued in Tar River

Senator comments on veto override of HB 10 

The legacy of Washington native Thetis Marie Roberson

Herbert Covington Bonner: Serving his country on and off the battlefield