World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest 2025

Get ready, Memphis because the smell of smoked ribs and sizzling pork is about to take over Liberty Park. The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest 2025 is back from May 14 to 17, and it’s gearing up to be the ultimate celebration of all things slow-cooked, spice-rubbed, and finger-lickin’ good.

A flagship event of the Memphis in May International Festival, this four-day competition is a full culinary spectacle. We're talking top-tier teams, live music, ancillary competitions, and more sauce than you could ever imagine. If you're into BBQ, this is your pilgrimage.

More than 250 teams from across the U.S. (and even as far as Canada and Europe) will battle it out for the coveted title of world champion in categories like Whole Hog, Shoulder, and Ribs, plus extras like Hot Wings, Seafood, and Exotic. With plenty of food to sample, music to enjoy, and fire to watch (the good kind), this prestigious barbecue contest is a beloved Memphis tradition that brings the heat every single year.

History of the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest

Part of the Memphis in May World events, this championship barbecue cooking contest began in 1978 as a way to celebrate the city’s proud food heritage. What started as a local showdown has grown into the world championship barbecue scene's main event.

Recognized by USA Today, Food Network, and even Guinness World Records, it draws thousands of fans and the best pitmasters around. Teams compete not just for bragging rights, but for serious prize money and worldwide recognition.

What to expect when attending World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest 2025

Liberty Park in Midtown Memphis transforms into BBQ heaven for four smoky, savory days. As soon as you hit the contest grounds, you'll see a carnival of cooking tents, grill masters working their magic, and plenty of hungry fans .

Expect a jam-packed schedule of championship barbecue cooking, including:

• Championship Pork Categories: Ribs, Shoulder, and Whole Hog – this is where legends are made.
• Ancillary Competitions: These bonus rounds include Hot Wings, Sauce, Beef, Seafood, Poultry, and even Exotic categories.
• Patio Porkers: Amateur teams with big dreams bring their best to the grill.
• Live Music and Games: Music stages, carnival vibes, and games keep the energy going long after the grills cool.

Many of the most championship-winning teams in barbecue USA history will be present. If you’ve ever watched BBQ battles on the Food Network or seen a crew in matching flame-print shirts moving with laser focus, it’s probably one of them.

Want to taste what the pros are cooking? Some ticket tiers offer access to special tasting events. Otherwise, stroll through the public food vendor zones for a bite of something amazing.

Tickets and Parking Info

Tickets are now available for the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest 2025. Here are some ticket options for you:

• Single Day Tickets: Access to the contest grounds for any one day.
  Price: $22.00​
• 4-Day Admission: Attend all four days of the event.
  Price: $65.00​
• Tour of Champions: Participate in a unique barbecue tasting and judging experience.
  Price: $33.00​
• BBQ Alley: Sample top-notch barbecue from renowned pitmasters and restaurants.
  Price: $28.00​
• VIPit Passes: The ultimate VIP barbecue experience, including exclusive access, food, beverages, and more.
  Price: $595.00​
• Parking Options:
• Single Day Parking: $18.00​
• 4-Day Parking Pass: $50.00​
• VIP Parking: $100.00​

Combo Tickets: Save by bundling admission with barbecue experiences:

• Tour Combo: Kingsford Tour of Champions + Festival Admission.
  Price: $42.00 (Save $13)
• Feast Combo: BBQ Alley + Festival Admission.
  Price: $37.00 (Save $13)​

For more details and to purchase tickets, visit the official Memphis in May ticket page.

How to Get There

Liberty Park is located in Midtown Memphis, which makes it easily accessible whether you're coming from across town or across the country. Here’s how to get there without breaking a sweat, or missing a rib-tasting.

• By car: If you’re driving in, be aware that street parking is extremely limited near Liberty Park. However, overflow lots are set up for the event, and shuttle buses usually run between parking areas and the contest grounds. Arrive early to snag a good spot, especially on Friday and Saturday when crowds are at their largest.
• By rideshare (Uber or Lyft): Both services will operate during the event and typically have dedicated drop-off and pick-up zones. Keep an eye out for event signage directing you to the correct locations to avoid road closures and detours around the contest grounds.
• By public transportation: Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) buses serve the Midtown area, including stops near Liberty Park. Check the MATA website or app for up-to-date schedules, routes, and any special event service additions.
• From Memphis International Airport (MEM): Flying in? You're in luck, Liberty Park is only about 20 minutes away by car or rideshare. Taxis are also available at the airport, and major rental car agencies operate onsite if you plan to explore more of Memphis during your visit.
• By bike or on foot: If you’re staying nearby (think Downtown or Midtown hotels like those near Overton Square), you might consider walking or cycling. It’s a great way to soak in the city and avoid traffic altogether.

Travel Tip: Use a GPS app like Google Maps or Waze on the day of your visit to navigate potential street closures or traffic congestion. The Memphis in May website may also post real-time updates about routes and shuttles.

World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest 2025 Bag Policy

Planning to attend with a full picnic setup? You might want to hold up. While an official bag policy hasn’t been posted yet for WCBCC 2025, previous years have included security checks at all entry points, and you’ll want to travel light.

What’s usually allowed:

• Small bags or backpacks
• Empty water bottles (refill stations available)
• Personal items like sunscreen and hand wipes (you’ll need them)

What’s not:

• Large coolers or hard-shell luggage
• Alcohol from outside
• Large umbrellas or bulky chairs
• Anything that could block walkways or cause a safety hazard

Security reserves the right to inspect any bag, so it’s always better to bring less, or store it nearby.

World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest 2025 Bag Storage

Don’t Carry it. Just stash it with Bounce.

No one wants to be juggling a backpack full of stuff while trying to crush a rib tasting. You can choose from many spots throughout the city, including near Liberty Park and the Memphis International Airport.

• Affordable: Store your bag for just $4.90 per 24 hours.
• Secure: Your booking includes $10,000 in protection.
• Flexible: Cancel anytime before your drop-off time.
• Reliable: 24/7 support to help you out if plans change.

How to Store Your Bags with Bounce

It’s quick, easy, and your back will thank you:

• Book online: Pick a nearby Bounce partner in Midtown Memphis.
• Drop it off: Head in, show your confirmation, and leave your gear.
• Hit the contest: Explore the grills, music, and games without lugging anything around.

Tips to Make the Most out of World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest 2025

• Come hungry: You’re here for the barbecue, so plan accordingly.
• Dress for the heat: Memphis in May usually brings warm weather with daytime temperatures averaging between 75 F and 85 F (24 C to 29 C). Pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and wear light, breathable clothes to stay cool while you’re sampling ribs in the sun.
• Bring cash and card: Some vendors may only accept one or the other.
• Study the map: Know where the tasting tents, stages, and restrooms are located.
• Follow your nose: Let the smell of ribs and pork shoulder guide you to greatness.
• Use Bounce: Travel light and keep your hands free for more important things – like barbecue sauce.

The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest 2025 is a can't-miss slice of Memphis whether you’re a BBQ fanatic, casual carnivore, or just someone who likes a good festival. From the most championship-winning teams to amateur dreamers in Patio Porkers, this storied competition is about community, flavor, and celebration. See you in the smoke at Liberty Park. Just don’t forget your napkins.