Memphis In May International Festival Presents:
The Best Barbecue Teams On The Planet
Meet May 13-16, 2026
At Liberty Park
The Largest Pork Barbecue Contest In The World
Over $190,000 In Prize Money!
More Than 250 Official Memphis In May-Trained And Certified Judges
APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN!
WCBCC APPLICATION
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.
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 Barbecue 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.
Open Fire World Championship
Memphis in May is turning up the heat with the launch of the Open Fire World Championship — debuting at the 2026 World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, Thursday–Saturday, May 14–16, 2026!
Get ready to witness pitmasters from around the globe harness the power of open flame to cook up incredible beef, pork, chicken, lamb, and even a few surprises like alligator and octopus. Curated by Al Frugoni and Memphis In May, this event will celebrate global fire culture from Argentina to Appalachia, through competition and consumer experiences you won’t forget.
deadline to apply is Coming In December.
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.
Presenting Sponsors
