For those of you staying with us here at Naples Florida Vacation Homes from up north, you probably think of BBQ when you first think about Southern cooking.
Even though Florida isn’t known for its BBQ, Naples does love BBQ! There are BBQ restaurants serving various BBQ styles in Florida, including Michelbob’s, and Black Eyed Pig.
BBQ events in Florida are still not as common as in other places; however, Naples is one of the cities in Florida that has a very unique BBQ event every year. This event is known as the Big Swamp Smoke Off.
The Big Swamp Smoke Off is a five-year old event, held every year in January at the Collier County Fairgrounds. It is a two-day BBQ competition, attracting competitors from around Florida and the United States. Competitors compete in cooking beef brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and chicken. Awards are given to the winner of each category win on the last day at 5 PM.
However, while you are waiting for the awards to be announced and given out, try some of the wonderful BBQ being prepared, sample local craft beer, listen to some live music, or watch the kids play one of the various carnival activities, including games, a bounce house, and a bungee.
Maybe take the kids for some sand art or face painting, or do some yourself! Either way, the Big Swamp Smoke Off has lots of fun activities that will satisfy the whole family, in addition to the great BBQ and craft beer that you will have a chance to sample and taste while you are there!
The festival begins Friday evening with activities for the kids. If you are going for BBQ, you need to come Saturday. Festival starts at 10 am, and lasts until the awards are announced at 5 pm. For more information on the Big Swamp Smoke Off, visit their website at www.bigswampsmokeoff.com.

Come Relax at an Elegant Naples Florida Vacation Home

When you’ve finished an amazing meal at Baleen in Naples, come back to a gorgeous Naples Florida Vacation Home to enjoy the rest of the evening. When you stay in one of our stunning vacation homes, you’ll enjoy top-tier amenities, tasteful decor, and locations convenient to some of the best dining, beaches, and activities in Naples! Contact us today! We are looking forward to helping you find your dream vacation home!