5 Texas BBQ Competitions to Check Out in 2026
Is 2026 the year you finally enter your first BBQ contest? Are you an old pro eager to try your tongs on some new judge panels? Or are you simply an enthusiast hoping to eat some of the best BBQ in the great state of Texas?
Whatever your goals, these exciting BBQ competitions are bound to hit the spot.
#1: Smokin on the Rio
Dates: February 13 to February 14th.
Location: Mercedes, TX
A world championship BBQ cook-off that raises money for youth agricultural projects in the Rio Grande Valley.
Visit: smokinontherio.com.
#2: Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
Dates: February 26 to February 28
Location: Houston, TX
250 teams, three days, live music, and a huge party. What could be better?
#3: BBQ Austin
Dates: March 6 to March 7
Location: Austin, TX
This competition raises funds for Rodeo Austin's youth programs. There will be over 260 teams in attendance.
Visit: rodeoaustin.com.
#4: Cedar Fest
Dates: April 10
Location: Cedar Park, TX
This is a smaller, more accessible competition that's a great choice for beginners. Sites are first come, first serve.
Visit: 2026 Cedar Fest BBQ Cookoff COOKERS - Apr 10, 2026
#5: Lone Star Smokeout
Dates: April 24–26
Location: Arlington, TX
Three days of beer, BBQ, and country music. What could be better?
Visit: www.lonestarsmokeout.com.
Where Else Can You Find Great BBQ Events?
Head over to Houbbq, an independent local organization committed to local pitmasters. They also run festivals of their own, though theirs are less competition and more a matter of gathering some of the best pitmasters in Houston to come and share their tastiest treats.
You can also check BBQ News Magazine which lists numerous championships. They cover events from all 50 states, so if you're up to a drive to Louisiana or Oklahoma, you'll find even more events to attend!
Are You Ready for BBQ Season?
If you're feeling the need to compete then a grill or smoker from Lone Star Grillz is the way to go. Our handmade, custom-built Texas pits offer a competitive edge, even to relative newcomers. Visit our shop to find yours today!
Not sure what to choose? Find out what makes an LSG Custom Pit Trailer stand out for large-scale BBQ events.