It’s that time again; summertime, and by all accounts, barbecue time! Once again Coweta County is preparing for its second annual Coweta Up In Smoke Barbecue Cook-off.

As a part of the state’s tourist calendar of events, Coweta County prepares to roll out the red carpet to cooking teams, tourists and arts/crafts vendors from all over the state. This annual event, while being tons of fun and deservedly laid back, promotes a very serious cause for Coweta County. The Coweta Up In Smoke (CUIS) event is the annual fund raiser for the Coweta Community Chest and Civic Council.

The organization was revived for the purpose of raising money, awareness and volunteers for Coweta County’s charitable organizations and civic groups. This allows the group to assist in many aspects of financial, emotional and personal needs, as they may arrive, for the citizens of Coweta County.

While assisting local charities and civic groups, the Community Chest is considered a clearing house for all of these organizations. The group, however, has developed its own policies to directly assist those in need through an application process. This is truly an outreach that touches the lives of those that may have needs smaller than many large charitable organizations can see or assist with.

CUIS is proud to partner with the Community Chest to raise funds and awareness for Coweta County. What better way to enjoy the summer than to gather ‘round a big smoker or a grill and swap stories over great barbecue? This year the BBQ cook-off will once again be at the Coweta County Fairgrounds on Pine Road, south of Newnan. The first day of the event is July 21 from 4 p.m. to midnight. This day will be geared toward socializing among the teams and the public. There will be a new feature; a “People’s Choice” for your favorite restaurant’s ribs. Additionally, there will be live music, a classic car cruise-in (hosted by The Car Guys) and an ‘Anything Butt’ cook-off allowing the cooking teams to cook desserts, stew and other personal selections that are not a part of the competition for the next day.

On July 22, the gates open at 9 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. This day involves the full competition including ribs, brisket and pork shoulder. There will be a continuation of the car cruise, kids activities and arts and crafts for the entire family. There will be the now famous ‘people’s choice’ competition; allowing you the ability to sample and vote for your favorite barbecue. Saturday also includes the U.S. Army’s static display, rock climbing wall and a Coweta County Public Safety display. Barbecue will be in abundance and will be available for everyone wanting to partake in sticky fingers and stained shirts!! Tickets are available for each day or for the combined event. Single day tickets are $5 each, but a two day ticket is only $8.

For more information please visit www.cowetabbq.org.

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