ABOUT

Welcome to Lovington! Smokin’ on the Plaza takes place in the heart of this New Mexico city’s downtown district. There are no tickets, and the festival is free to attend.

Smokin’ on the Plaza started in 2010, and has since grown into a two-day festival with live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a state championship cook-off that attracts BBQ fanatics and grill masters from near and far.

We are IBCA sanctioned, and our state championship gives cookers a unique shot at the Jack Daniel’s
World Championship Invitational
. Interested cookers will need to follow IBCA rules, and are required to turn in 8 pork spareribs, 8 brisket slices, and one half (½) of a jointed chicken to compete. There is a small fee to compete, and a $10,000 cash payout

Our festival features live concerts from Texas red-dirt country music stars, as well as local favorites. Previous acts include Kyle Park, Bart Crow, Zane Williams, Stoney LaRue, Casey Donahew, and many more, so bring your lawn chairs and dancin’ shoes!  

Smokin’ on the Plaza is a signature event for downtown Lovington. We hope you have big fun in our small town!

ABOUT THE ORGANIZERS

Smokin’ on the Plaza is hosted by Lovington MainStreet, a 501©3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to revitalize the downtown district of Lovington, New Mexico. As a grassroots organization, they provide services and support to small and emergent businesses and district property owners. LMS does not charge fees or membership.  

Lovington MainStreet receives funding through donations, sponsorships, grants, and government contracts. Increasing funds means more services, programs, improvements, and events in Lovington—this is how Smokin’ on the Plaza got its start! LMS has sponsorship packages available through their Community Partners program, which provides business marketing and promotion for participating sponsors. The organization also accepts volunteers and in-kind donations.

All contributions to LMS are tax-deductible. Check out the Lovington MainStreet website at lovingtonmainstreet.org for more information.