Jason Butts & Russell Cook 

Laura Hussey, Bob Solarski & Allie Norton

Danielle & Jeff French

Larry Irby & Elizabeth Russell

Rachel Blackwell & Katy Jackson

Jared Bush & Parker Russell

T

he weather was absolutely beautiful for the 9th annual Smokin’ in the Square, which 
was held in its new location at the Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park.  
On March 16-18, the park was fi lled to the brim with around 50 professional teams 
and 25 backyarder teams competing for cash prizes, trophies, and bragging rights.  

Some of the teams were award-winning barbecue competitors.  Close to a dozen barbecue 
vendors were also on site, selling a variety of barbecue meats and side dishes. 

A “Tips for Tastes” event was held from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, where spectators 

could sample small portions from the various backyard teams for a small donation.  Guests with 
VIP tickets were allowed access to an all-you-can-eat-and-drink area. 

Event organizer Ivan Delabruere has been coordinating this festival, which has been growing 

a little more each year, starting from a smaller event that took place at St. Rose of Lima Catholic 
Church in Milton.  The event raises money for various charities and nonprofi t organizations 
each year.  This year’s recipients were St. Vincent de Paul Society, the Rally Foundation, the 
Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Weekend Food Program, and Operation BBQ Relief.

Performers over the weekend included Bear With Me, Chasing Fridays, Yard Dog Blues, Jimi 

Stevie, Ami Russ, and The McGuire’s Pipe Band.

Smokin’ in the Square

photos & story by

 

Kristina Wright 

Richard & Ann Koch

   VIP Pensacola at Vince J. Whibbs Sr. Community Maritime Park

88     |    VIPPensacola.com

xx-xx_Smoking in the Square.indd   1

3/25/18   2:05 PM