Valley Junction Will Be Smokin’ Memorial Day Weekend

The secret’s in the sauces and the rubs at Valley Junction’s fourth annual Smokin’ in the Junction BBQ Contest Saturday and Sunday.

Competitive barbecuers will vie for $13,000 in prizes, including $1,500 for the grand champion, in the Kansas City Barbecue Society-sanctioned event. More than 50 competitors are expected for the two-day event, one of the largest competitions in the United States.

Not a competitive barbecue chef?

Barbecuing vs. grilling? Do you know the difference? What's your favorite? Tell us below in the comments.

No worries. The has planned activities to suit all tastes, from music to a beer garden to inflatables and activities geared toward a younger crowd.

Smokin’ in the Junction runs from noon to 10 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free.

A featured event of A-MAY-Zing Days, Smokin’ in the Junction culminates a month of community events and activities. Corporate sponsors are AVIVA, city of West Des Moines, KXNO Radio and Mediacom.