As part of The Heartland Network partnership, Memphis in May presents:
the Carriage Crossing Cookout
Saturday, September 19, 2026
Carriage Crossing
Collierville, Tennessee
Competitors will vie for cash prizes of $500, $250 and $100, but the biggest prize is a guaranteed seat at the table as a contender and cast member for Barbecue Country Season 2, bypassing the show’s standard audition process entirely.
(The entry fee for the Carriage Crossing Cookout is $100.
Carnivore Carnival
September 25-27, 2026
Kansas City
Things will heat up in Kansas City this upcoming weekend (October 3rd and 4th) at the @carnivore_carnival_usa. We’re excited to announce a smokin’ hot partnership: Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest is teaming with the World Tour of Barbecue Carnivore Carnival! This collaboration brings together two legendary celebrations of flavor, tradition, and creativity.
Contest Grand Champion is guaranteed entry and a $250 team entry discount into any division of the 2026 WCBCC. All other competing teams are eligible for a $100 team entry discount on any division of the 2026 WCBCC.
2026 Murphysboro Barbecue Cook-Off
September 24 – 26, 2026
MBN/KBS/SCA Tri-Sanctioned
As the smoke begins to fill the air today in Murphysboro Illinois, we’re excited to announce a smokin’ hot partnership: Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest is teaming up with the 17th Street Barbecue 38th annual Praise the Lard Murphysboro Barbecue Cook-off! This collaboration brings together two legendary celebrations of flavor, tradition, and creativity.
Contest Grand Champion is guaranteed entry and a $250 team entry discount into any division of the 2026 WCBCC. All other competing teams are eligible for a $100 team entry discount on any division of the 2026 WCBCC.