The “Ohio Smoked Meat and Barbeque Festival” originated in 1996 as the first official state of Ohio championship for smoked meat and BBQ, proclaimed by the governor of Ohio.  The competition is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society. 

For 11 years the competition was organized by Hocking College and the Inn at Hocking College.  Many great years of barbecue excellence occurred at Hocking College, along with fun and friendship.

The Ohio Smoked Meat and Barbecue Festival took a great turn in 2008!  The Nelsonville Area Chamber of Commerce stepped forward to organize and lead this Ohio classic of barbecue.  Not only was there a new organizer but a new competition area.  The competition moved from the fields of Hocking College to the streets of downtown Nelsonville , Ohio, and the historic Public Square and arts district.  2008 was a year that renewed the BARBECUE SPIRIT in Nelsonville.

BBQ is back on the Public Square in Nelsonville, Ohio October 16 & 17, 2009.  Check out Nelsonville and experience Ohio Barbecue at its finest.