Orlando Moms Blog couldn’t resist attending Sonny’s second annual Smokin’ Showdown Invitational last week. I mean, who doesn’t love a good BBQ??
If you’ve never attended, Sonny’s Smokin’ Showdown Invitational is an epic battle between the nation’s top Pitmasters and an opportunity for Sonny’s BBQ to share its passion for BBQ. The event took place at the Central Florida Zoo this year, bringing BBQ enthusiasts from all over the country to the heart of Florida for a full day of live music by Frankie Ballard, Jill’s Cashbox, Rockit Fly, Hayfire, family fun and delicious BBQ.
Of course the first thing we did upon arrival was EAT! The BBQ did not disappoint! From pulled pork sandwiches to tasty ribs, our tummies were content and happy!
Once our tummies were full, we took a stroll around to see the Pitmasters. As we toured “Pit Row”, we were excited to see my home state of Iowa represented! Each January, my parents come to Florida to visit, so of course we had to stop for a photo opp at the Iowa Pitmaster spot!
The day couldn’t have been more perfect. Good food. Good music. And fun for the whole family.
While my hubby zipped over to the beer line, I walked around with the kids to visit the vendor booths. The Cheerwine booth was refreshing, and my youngest was over-the-moon to see some kettle corn! Then we went straight to the Kid Zone! All of the activities in the Kid Zone were free of charge! With a great mix of things to do, from climbing walls, trampolines, and inflatables, the Kid Zone made the Smokin’ Showdown a family-friendly event.
While the food and entertainment was awesome, the main focus of the day was of course the #SmokinShowdown!
The BBQ teams were judged on five different meat categories: chicken, ribs, pork, brisket and a mystery meat. The grand champion team received $20,000 along with a myriad of other cash prizes for subsequent winners. Attracting exceptional talent from around the country, here’s who took home the bacon during last week’s #SmokinShowdown.
Mystery Meat: Pit Crew
Beef: Wolf Revenge BBQ
Ribs: Real South BBQ
Grand Champion: Cajun Blaze
Sonny’s did an fantastic job at putting together a family-friendly event, with something for everyone. We will definitely do this again next year! For more information and upcoming details on future showdowns visit sonnysshowdown.com and sonnysbbq.com.
