Starting February 26, 2026, at the NRG Center at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the savory scent of grilled meats will sift through the air, spice rubs will simmer over fire, and barbecue lovers from across Texas and beyond will join together at the NRG for one of the Lone Star State’s most prestigious culinary competitions: the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest.
The two-day event from February 26-28, 2026, is touted as a gathering of the best pitmasters and barbecue teams and more than 250 teams compete in the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest presented by Cotton Holdings. While most team tents are invitation-only, visitors can enjoy several public venues, including The Garden Stage, presented by Miller Lite. Plus, the Carnival, presented by First Community, is open for wild rides and fun games.
The Garden Stage features some of the best up-and-coming and established artists in Texas country. The Rockin’ Bar-B-Que Saloon also features live and DJ music, and it has an outside patio for visitors to enjoy. Inside the saloon is the Chuckwagon, where visitors can pick up their complimentary BBQ plate.
Each year, teams bring their best brisket, ribs, chicken, desserts, and specialty creations to be judged in categories that honor both tradition and innovation. From classic Texas brisket to Dutch oven desserts, the range highlights how far the craft has evolved.
While brisket often steals the contest, other award categories include ribs, chicken, Texas-style pride dishes, and Dutch Oven desserts, as well as an open contest for creative grill masters. The Bar-B-Que Contest is an immersive Texas experience. While many team pits and cook tents are private and invitation-only, the festival atmosphere is open to all ticketholders.
Attendees can enjoy live music on The Garden Stage, showcasing top and rising talent in Texas country and roots music. They can grab a complimentary BBQ plate at The Chuckwagon or soak up tunes at the Rockin’ Bar-B-Que Saloon with DJ and live acts. Experience carnival rides, games, and more courtesy of the adjoining carnival grounds.
Past competitions have produced well-known winners in the BBQ circuit. In 2025, the Always Able But Confused Cookers were crowned Grand Champion Overall, with Metro Go Texan 5/Second 2 None 2 close behind as Reserve Champion.
These teams are backed by years of tradition and rookie crews bring fresh ideas to the smoker. For contestants, it’s a chance to stake a claim in barbecue lore. For spectators, it’s a reason to celebrate Texas culture, BBQ tradition, and culture.
Schedule is as follows: Thursday, Feb. 26: 5 – 11 p.m., Friday, Feb. 27: Noon – 11 p.m.,
and Saturday, Feb. 28: 9 a.m. – 11 p.m. Contest Awards Presentation at The Garden Stage, presented by Miller Lite, is at 7 p.m. on Saturday, February 28.
Vitals
- Date: February 26-28, 2026
- Address: Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, NRG Center, 3 NRG Park, Houston
- Website and tickets: https://www.rodeohouston.com/worlds-championship-bar-b-que/
Map to NRG Center
Featured image from Pexels.com
