2026 World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest Judge’s Seminar
Memphis in May invites you to become an official judge at the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest
THINK YOU KNOW GOOD BARBECUE? MEMPHIS IN MAY INVITES YOU TO BECOME AN OFFICIAL JUDGE AT THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BARBECUE COOKING CONTEST.
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (November 17, 2025) – Barbecue lovers, this is your moment to go from tasting in the backyard to judging on the world’s biggest stage! The Memphis in May International Festival is calling all BBQ enthusiasts to register for the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest Judge’s Seminar. The Judge’s Seminar is the first step to becoming an official certified judge for the most prestigious barbecue competition on the planet. If you’ve ever dreamed of being the person who decides who truly reigns as King (or Queen!) of barbecue and who will be named World Champion, this is your chance to make it official!
The Judges Seminar will take place on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the Doubletree Hotel located at 5069 Sanderlin Ave, Memphis, TN 38117. The cost of the Judge’s Seminar is only $135.00 and includes breakfast, lunch, and an on-site Judging Demo by Will-Be-Que, the 2025 Memphis In May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest Whole Hog Champion! Topics covered in this seminar include:
- Memphis In May Judging rules and process
- Scoring Process – Blind, On-Site, and Finals Judging
- Official Memphis In May WCBCC Meat Categories
Attendees who successfully complete the seminar earn certification that qualifies them to judge in future World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest and other sanctioned events. After two years of judging the Memphis In May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, you will become a certified Memphis In May Judge. Whether you’re a barbecue enthusiast or aspiring judge, this seminar offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to determine the best barbecue in the world.
“Barbecue isn’t just food, it’s passion, precision, and pride,” said Mack Weaver, President & CEO of Memphis in May International Festival. “The Judge’s Seminar is where barbecue fans become part of the legacy that makes Memphis the global capital of barbecue.”
So, grab your appetite, your curiosity, and your stretchy pants. It’s time to train your taste buds for greatness. In Memphis, we don’t just eat barbecue. We judge it! Spots are limited, and they fill up faster than a smoker on competition day!
Register now at Memphisinmay.Org/Judge/ and secure your seat at the table.
