Burlington River Days is turning up the heat this June with two fan-favorite events that celebrate river life, great food, and a little friendly competition: the “Smoke on the Water” BBQ Competition and the River Days Boat Parade.
Taking place Saturday, June 13, the Smoke on the Water BBQ Competition invites pitmasters from across the region to the riverfront to compete for bragging rights and a share of $1,500 in prize money. The competition will feature two divisions—chicken and St. Louis-style ribs—judged under Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) rules.
Teams will fire up their smokers early Saturday morning, with chicken turn-ins at 11:00 a.m. and ribs at noon. But the real win for the public comes at 12:30 p.m., when attendees can take part in a public tasting and help decide the coveted People’s Choice Award.
Also returning this year is the River Days Boat Parade, a celebration of the boats—and personalities—that make the Mississippi River community so unique. From decked-out pontoons to well-loved fishing rigs and everything in between, the parade invites boat owners to show off their style, creativity, and river pride.
Both events are part of Burlington River Days, June 11–13, a three-day riverfront festival featuring live music, family activities, vendors, and the popular Boatload of Prizes Giveaway.
Registration for the BBQ competition and boat parade is available online at BurlingtonRiverDays.com.
