TROY - The Troy/Edwardsville Shrine Club will host their annual family-friendly barbecue festival to raise money for Ainad Shrine and other local nonprofits. On Aug. 16 and 17, 2025, community members are invited to Tri-Township Park in Troy for the festival, called Smoke N For The Kids. In addition to the barbecue competition and food, attendees can enjoy a car show, bounce houses, a petting zoo, live music, a bags tournament, raffles and more. “What’s better than hot rods and barbecue and beer and bands?” said Matt with the Southern Illinois Street Rod Association. “You cannot beat shade, a petting zoo, beer and bands.” Smoke N For The Kids draws barbecue competitors from across the region. John with the Shrine Club noted that they have “a world-class field,” with competitors in different divisions. The competition starts at 11 a.m. both days. On Saturday, Aug. 16, attendees can participate in a bags competition at 1 p.m.
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