Memphis In May International Festival Presents:
The Best Barbecue Teams On The Planet
Meet May 12-15, 2027
The Largest Pork Barbecue Contest In The World is at Liberty Park!
Over $200,000 In Prize Money!
More Than 250 Official Memphis In May-Trained And Certified Judges
2027 APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN!
WCBCC APPLICATION
Are You Ready For The 2027 World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, The Most Prestigious Barbecue Cooking Contest On The Planet?
The 49th Edition Of The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest Will Be Held May 12-15, 2027, At Liberty Park In Memphis, TN.
Team Spaces Fill Up Quickly With Legendary Pit-masters And Competition Cooking Teams From Across The Country And Around The World.
Submit your application and entry fee early. Application deadline is February 12, 2027. Successful applicants will receive confirmation of their entry into the contest after March 1, 2027.
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!
A check for the total amount due or online credit card payment must be received with every application and postmarked, hand-delivered or received no later than March 5, 2027.
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,
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.
A check for the total amount due or online credit card payment must be received with every application and postmarked, hand-delivered or received no later than March 19, 2027.
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.
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.
2027 WCBCC teams looking to participate in Barbecue Marketplace Will submit their application here. TBA