Sevierville’s Bloomin’ BBQ

Championship Tennessee Barbecue, Bluegrass, and Americana in the Smoky Mountains

Sevierville’s eighteenth annual Bloomin’ BBQ Music & Food Festival gets underway May 20 to 21, 2022, with barbecue cooking teams from across the nation and big-name entertainment. 

Situated in the heart of historic downtown Sevierville, the event offers free admission, free concerts, and a chance to savor some of the finest barbecue in the country. More than thirty of the nation’s top teams, including the legendary Johnny Trigg, will compete for cash and the coveted title in the Bush’s Best Tennessee State Championship Barbeque Cook Off. Championship-level ‘cue is also available for guests to enjoy from three of the competitors will also be vending during the event. Take a little time to stroll through the “Que Zone” and watch the competitors hard at work.

After filling up, make sure to bring a lawn chair for the free concerts with rising stars and musical legends. Friday night’s lineup on the Swaggerty’s Farm Main Stage includes Kat Wright, Jimbo Whaley & Greenbrier, Appalachian Roadshow and headliner Dan Tyminski Band. On the Bush’s Best Community Stage, catch performances from fiddle phenom Evie Andrus and a set from pop artist Kylie Odetta. Watch performances from local dance teams and civic groups on the Back Porch Stage throughout the event.

On Saturday catch live performances from the ETSU Old Time Ramblers, The Family Sowell, Sideline, the Jacob Jolliff Band, Arlo McKinley, and legendary bluegrass jam band Leftover Salmon on the Swaggerty’s Farm Main Stage. Saturday shows scheduled for the Bush’s Best Community Stage include Catfish & the Bottom, Suspended Jesses, Kelle Jolly, Sailing to Denver, and Andrea & Mud. 

The Kids’ Zone adds fun and enrichment for kids and families who attend Bloomin’ BBQ. Enjoy the Days Gone By area and additional children’s attractions and games–all of which will remain open until approximately 9 pm each day of the event. Then browse wares from nearly forty artists and crafters–showcasing items from handmade jewelry and art to home decor. 

History buffs are invited to come along on one of four Historic Walking Tours throughout downtown Sevierville led by area historians and volunteers. Plan to take a tour on Friday, May 20, at 6 pm, or Saturday May 21, at 10 am, 2 pm, or 4 pm. 

New for 2022 is the Teller’s Circle of storytellers, presented by East Tennessee State University.

A highlight of Bloomin’ BBQ Music & Food Festival is the 18^th Annual Mountain Soul Vocal Competition Finals held on May 21. Finalists from around the nation will sing their hearts out for a chance to win cash and prizes. This one-of-a-kind competition honors the songwriting of Sevierville native Dolly Parton. 

Admission to the Bloomin’ BBQ Music & Food Festival and concerts is free thanks to great sponsors, including the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce, which invites visitors to stay in Sevierville while visiting the event. 

For great lodging and more information about Bloomin’ BBQ Music & Food Festival, call (888) 889-7415 or visit us online at www.BloominBBQ.com.