Escambia County Habitat for Humanity is trying a little something different as a way to make money for future building projects.

Habitat is holding the first ever “Holy Smokes Barbeque” at Tom Byrne Park in Atmore on Saturday, May 14 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Many church members have perfected their own special ways to cook barbecue for big events and this will be the chance to show those recipes off.

“We chose to include just churches in this cook-off,” Alecia Glaize, who is the executive director of Escambia County Habitat, said. “That’s the reason for the name of the event. We are always looking for a way to make money to pay for the work we do. This is the first time we have ever done this. I am not a barbecue expert, but I understand some people are really in to their likes and dislikes in barbecue. I know I have heard of several cook-offs in Pensacola and Mobile, and we thought we would try it.”

Churches are asked to form a team, or sponsor a team, of cooks and enter the competition, not only for Habitat, but for their church as well.

The competition will be judged by Kansas City Barbeque Society judges and winners will get trophies for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places, and People’s Choice Award in categories of ribs, chicken and Boston butts. There will also be a People’s Choice Award.

Each team must provide 40 pounds of meat to be used for tasting. These tastes will sell for $1 each. The teams can also sell their barbecue in bulk for whatever they want. Teams keep 75 percent of what is sold and Escambia County Habitat for Humanity will get 25 percent. There is an entry fee of $25 per team and the registration deadline is May 6.

“We are also asking the participating churches to bring their musical groups and choirs,” Glaize said. “They will be good entertainment while everyone eats their barbecue. We thought this would be a good way for the churches to share in whatever is made while helping Habitat at the same time.”

Contact Habitat for Humanity to register or for more information. The phone number is 251-867-0095 or email to habitat@escambiahfh.org