Smoke Under the Oaks 2026
23 rib teams, 744 racks of ribs, and an incredible community turnout. Smoke Under the Oaks 2026 was an event to remember. Thank you to our teams, volunteers, and sponsors!
Smoke Under the Oaks 2026 was an incredible event, and I am so proud of everything we accomplished together. Here is a quick look at the highlights:
23 rib teams participated, each bringing their best recipes and competing for the top prize.
We distributed 62 cases of ribs, which equals 744 racks!
It is estimated that 2,500 - 3,000 people attended the event.
Congratulations to our winners and to every team that showed up ready to cook, compete, and be part of something that has truly become a LaBelle tradition.
1st Place - Sweet Sugar Swine 2nd Place - Papa Paul's Backyard Bar-B-Que 3rd Place - Dirty Earnie's Almost Famous BBQ People's Choice: T-Rex Rub
I want to thank the people who made this event possible behind the scenes. The LDRC team, our incredible volunteers, and everyone who showed up not only the day of the event but also the day before to help set up and get everything ready. The amount of support and trust that was given to me did not go unnoticed, and I am deeply grateful.
This was my first time leading an event of this scale, and while the pressure was definitely on, it was an incredible experience to see everything come together and watch the community show up the way they did. Moments like this are a reminder of just how strong and supportive this community really is.
A huge thank you as well to our rib teams, vendors, and especially our sponsors who help make this event happen year after year.
Looking ahead, I already have a few ideas for next year. My goal is to continue building visibility for Smoke Under the Oaks throughout the year and to strengthen and grow participation from our rib teams so the competition keeps getting better each time.
I am genuinely looking forward to hosting this event in the future and shaping it into something our community can be proud of for years to come.
I will also be sending out a survey soon to gather feedback from everyone who attended or participated. When it arrives, I hope you will take a few minutes to share your thoughts so we can keep improving the experience together.
We would like to give a heartfelt thank you to all of the sponsors who helped make the day possible!
AAction Power Equipment - A locally owned outdoor power equipment dealer in LaBelle that sells, services, and repairs equipment such as lawn mowers, small engines, and golf carts. They carry equipment and parts from major brands and provide maintenance and repair support for both homeowners and professionals. https://www.aactionpowerequipment.com/
Belle Hatchee Marina - A waterfront marina that supports boating, recreation, and river access along the Caloosahatchee, helping connect residents and visitors to one of LaBelle's greatest natural assets. 67 Riverbend Dr, LaBelle, FL 33935 - (863) 674-1772
BMF Electric - An electrical contractor serving the LaBelle area, providing residential, commercial, and agricultural services including wiring, repairs, inspections, and general electrical work. (863) 673-3135
Cabai Law Office, P.A. - A LaBelle law firm that supports individuals and families with legal services including family law, criminal defense, and general civil matters. https://www.cabailaw.com/
Coldwell Banker Belle Realty - Supports the LaBelle area through residential and commercial real estate services, helping connect people with homes, land, and business opportunities. https://www.coldwellbanker.com
Davis Roofing of SWFL INC. - Offers roofing services across Southwest Florida, helping protect homes and businesses through installations, repairs, inspections, and full roof replacements. https://davisroofingswfl.com/
Family Eye Care - An eye care center in downtown LaBelle that provides comprehensive vision services, including eye exams, contact lenses, eyewear, and optical support for patients of all ages. https://familyeyecarelabelle.com/
Goodlad & Swank Insurance, LLC - An insurance agency providing personal and commercial insurance services, helping individuals and businesses find coverage that fits their needs. https://goodladandswank.com/
Rocket Cooling - HVAC services including installation, maintenance, and repair for air conditioning and heating systems throughout its service area, helping homes and businesses stay comfortable year-round. https://www.rocketcooling.com/
Suncoast Beverage Sales - Delivers a broad range of beers, wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages to retailers, restaurants, and event partners across Southwest Florida, supporting local businesses with quality products. https://suncoastbeverage.com/
Suncoast Credit Union - A member-owned financial cooperative offering banking services including checking and savings accounts, loans, mortgages, and financial planning support to individuals and businesses throughout the region. https://www.suncoast.com/
U.S. Sugar - An agricultural and processing company focused on growing and producing sugarcane and related products, supporting Florida's agricultural economy and rural communities. https://www.ussugar.com/
Waste Connections - Provides comprehensive solid waste collection, recycling, and disposal services for residential, commercial, and industrial customers, helping keep communities clean and environmentally responsible. https://www.wasteconnections.com/