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BBQ Festival Guide

World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest

May 13–16, 2026Liberty Park, Memphis, TN

About the festival

The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest is the marquee event of Memphis in May, and one of the most prestigious barbecue competitions on earth. It draws more than 150 elite teams from across the United States and beyond, all vying for a share of a prize purse approaching $190,000.

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Where to eat while you’re in Memphis

Our highest-rated Memphis barbecue — worth a detour whether or not you make the festival.

Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous

Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous

Downtown·9.6
Cozy Corner

Cozy Corner

North Memphis·9.4
Central BBQ

Central BBQ

Midtown·9.2
Corky's Memphis

Corky's Memphis

Cordova·9.2
Leonard's BBQ

Leonard's BBQ

Hickory Hill·9.1
Payne's Bar-B-Q

Payne's Bar-B-Q

Lamar Avenue·9.1
Central BBQ

Central BBQ

Downtown·9.0
Central BBQ

Central BBQ

East Memphis·9.0
See the full Memphis BBQ guide
Good to Know

Memphis in May BBQ Contest — Frequently Asked Questions

When is Memphis in May BBQ Contest?

World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest runs May 13–16, 2026. Held each May.

Where is Memphis in May BBQ Contest held?

World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest is held at Liberty Park, Memphis, TN.

What barbecue should I eat while I'm in Memphis?

Beyond the festival, Memphis's top-ranked spots include Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous, Cozy Corner, and Central BBQ — see our full Memphis guide for the rest.