Texas BBQ Contests to Check Out This Year
Interested in entering the wild world of Texas BBQ contests now that you've secured your custom grill from Lone Star Grillz?
We thought we'd take the time to help you find some! Many cookoffs offer cash prizes and loads of fun. These are just some samples.
Types of Contests
Before you start searching for contests, you should know there are three cook-off types.
There are "pure" competitions which make the competition itself the point, and where you might win some prize money. Fund-raiser cookoffs are designed to raise money for charity and aim to get crowds to spend money. Commercial cookoffs are usually aimed at business participants who also sell food at the show.
Choose the right kind of cookoff for your interests and skill level, and enjoy yourself!
Cook-Off Options
Champions Barbecue Alliance
The Champions BBQ Alliance runs cook-offs throughout the state all year round. You can find the full list here.
International Barbeque Cookers Association
This is another organization devoted to running judged BBQ contests throughout the state. They run several events in any given month, and travel all over the state. You'll find the full list of IBCA BBQ events here.
Rodeo Houston
Over 250 teams compete in the World Championship Bar-B-Que contest at the rodeo every year. While 2024's contest has already come to a close, you can look for this contest again in 2025. Check out the guidelines in the meantime so you'll be ready for next year!
Syndicate Smokedown Music Festival
Head to Fort Worth for BBQ and incredible live music, and compete in one of three categories: Spare Ribs, Chicken, and Brisket. What could be better?
HOUBBQ
HOUBBQ also runs plenty of cook-offs. The easiest way to stay on top of them is to sign up for the mailing list so you can hear about cookoffs as soon as they're announced.
Hold 'Em Hit 'Em BBQ Cook-Off
Hold'Em and Hit'Em holds annual event to support area youth and education initiatives. Cook bbq, compete, and enjoy supporting charitable causes!
Cook-Off Tips
Know the rules! Every cookoff will have its own set of rules. Don't assume every cook-off will work exactly the same way.
Spend time choosing the perfect meat and spices. Finally, bring the perfect pit. If you haven't already chosen a pit from Lone Star Grillz, start shopping now! We help our customers bring their best to any cook-off or catering event, and have the right pit, smoker, or grill for your goals.
Plus, we offer 0% financing with approved credit for the first 18 months. There's never been a better time to enter the world of competitive BBQ!