Memphis In May International Festival Presents:
The Best Barbecue Teams On The Planet
Meet May 13-16, 2026
At Liberty Park
Are you ready for The 2026 World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, the most prestigious barbecue cooking contest on the planet? The 48th edition of the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest will be held May 13-16, 2026, at Liberty Park in Memphis, TN.
The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, the largest pork barbecue contest in the world, features the championship categories of Whole Hog, Rib, Shoulder, and the entry-level Patio Porkers category. The 2026 contest will be exciting and competitive, as teams vie for the World Championship barbecue crown, a cash prize purse totaling over $170,000 in prize money.
More than 250 official Memphis in May-trained and certified judges will roll up their sleeves to determine the best of the pit in 2026, but it’s fingers only – no knife and fork at the Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest. Presenting sponsors include Cattlemen’s Barbecue Sauce, Home Depot, and Kingsford.
APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN!
WCBCC APPLICATION
Team spaces fill up quickly with legendary pitmasters and competition cooking teams from across the country and around the world.
deadline to apply is February 16, 2026.
JUNIOR BBC APPLICATION
Each team may include up to 3 individuals between the ages of 9-17. Cash Prizes and The Grand Champion receives Golden Ticket to the WFC as well as each category winner!
deadline to apply is March 16, 2026.
FLAVA FACEOFF APPLICATION
Chefs and Mixologist now have a chance to compete and see who can create the best bite and sip at the Flava Faceoff of Memphis, a premier three-day cooking competition presented by Sam’s Club during the 2026 World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest.
deadline to apply is Coming Soon.
Barbecue Marketplace
Showcase and Sell!
Barbecue Marketplace was created with both the competition teams and event attendees in mind. The marketplace Booth allows teams and pitmasters the opportunity to showcase and sell their sauces and rubs, while allowing festival attendees access During the Festival to purchase rubs and sauces produced by WCBCC teams and pitmasters.
2026 WCBCC teams looking to participate in Barbecue Marketplace can submit their application soon.