From smoked turkey to marinated tofu, any grilled or smoked dish is welcome to compete in the second annual BBQ & Smoker Challenge at the Washington Farmers’ Market.

Main Street Washington Executive Director Sarah Grunewaldt says competitors can prepare any grilled or smoked menu item as long as it’s ready for judges’ sampling at 5:30 p.m. this Thursday. Grunewaldt adds, “If you are a smoke master you know that it takes a long time. You can prep it at home as long as you bring it to the market by around 5:00, 5:30. It has to be plated for the judges by 5:30, and we highly encourage sampling so last year most people cut stuff up into little chunks and we had toothpicks for them and you can serve them to the crowd.”

Prizes will be given out to category winners or an overall winner depending on number of entries. If you are interested in competing visit the 2018 BBQ & Smoker Challenge Facebook page or email mainstreet@washingtoniowa.org.