How to Attend the World Championship BBQ Cooking Contest

The World Championship BBQ Cooking Contest (WCBCC) is more than just a festival—it’s the pinnacle of competitive barbecue culture in the United States. Held annually in Memphis, Tennessee, this event draws tens of thousands of visitors, hundreds of professional and amateur teams, and some of the most revered pitmasters in the country. For food lovers, barbecue enthusiasts, and travel aficionados alike, attending the WCBCC is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines culinary artistry, community spirit, and unforgettable sensory immersion. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for the fifth time, understanding how to attend this iconic event with precision and purpose can transform a simple trip into a deeply rewarding journey.

Unlike typical food fairs, the WCBCC is a sanctioned competition governed by the Memphis in May International Festival and the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS). It features rigorous judging standards, live cooking demonstrations, live music, cultural exhibits, and an atmosphere charged with the smoky aroma of slow-cooked ribs, brisket, and pulled pork. To fully appreciate and navigate this event, you need more than just a ticket—you need a strategy. This guide walks you through every essential step, from registration and logistics to insider tips and real-world examples, ensuring you experience the WCBCC at its fullest potential.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Event Structure and Timeline

The World Championship BBQ Cooking Contest takes place over five days in mid-May, coinciding with the Memphis in May International Festival. The contest itself runs from Wednesday to Sunday, with the official judging occurring on Friday and Saturday. The event is divided into several components: the competitive cooking area, the public festival grounds, the vendor marketplace, and the entertainment stages.

Teams begin setup on Wednesday, and the public gates open on Thursday afternoon. Friday and Saturday are the peak days, with judging and live cooking demonstrations. Sunday is reserved for award ceremonies and final tastings. Knowing this schedule allows you to plan your visit around the moments that matter most to you—whether that’s watching the judging, sampling entries, or catching live performances.

2. Purchase Tickets in Advance

Tickets for the WCBCC are sold through the official Memphis in May website. There are several ticket tiers:

• Single-Day Pass: Grants access to the festival grounds for one day. Ideal for casual visitors or those with limited time.
• Multi-Day Pass: Offers entry for two or more consecutive days at a discounted rate. Recommended for serious attendees.
• Weekend Pass: Covers Thursday through Sunday. Best value for those who want to experience the full event.
• VIP Pass: Includes premium seating, early entry, exclusive tastings, and access to the VIP tent with complimentary beverages and hors d’oeuvres.

Do not wait until the last minute. Tickets often sell out, especially for Friday and Saturday. Set up alerts on the official site and sign up for the Memphis in May newsletter to receive early access to ticket sales. Prices typically increase as the event nears, so purchasing early saves money and guarantees entry.

3. Plan Your Accommodations Early

Memphis sees a massive influx of visitors during the WCBCC. Hotels within a 10-mile radius of the event—located at Tom Lee Park along the Mississippi River—fill up months in advance. Book your lodging no later than January or February to secure the best rates and proximity.

Consider these options:

• Hotels near the Riverfront: Properties like The Peabody Memphis, Hotel Indigo, or the Holiday Inn Riverfront offer walking distance access to the festival grounds.
• Short-Term Rentals: Airbnb and Vrbo listings in the Midtown or Downtown areas are popular and often include kitchens, ideal for teams or groups.
• Outlying Areas with Shuttle Service: If hotel prices are prohibitive, consider staying in Germantown or South Memphis and using the official festival shuttles, which run every 15–20 minutes from designated parking hubs.

Always verify if your accommodation includes parking or if you’ll need to pay for a separate lot. On-site parking at Tom Lee Park is limited and reserved for vendors and teams.

4. Arrange Transportation

Driving to the event is common, but parking is extremely limited. If you’re driving, reserve a spot in one of the official overflow parking lots (such as the FedExForum lot or the AutoZone Park lot) and use the free shuttle service. These shuttles are ADA-compliant and run continuously from early morning until late evening.

Public transit is another viable option. The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) offers extended service during the festival, including special routes connecting downtown hotels to Tom Lee Park. Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are abundant, but surge pricing is common on peak days. Plan your drop-off and pickup points in advance to avoid congestion.

For those staying nearby, walking is the most enjoyable option. The riverfront path is scenic, well-lit, and lined with food trucks and live music, making the walk part of the experience.

5. Register for the Event (If You’re a Competitor)

If you’re not just attending but competing, registration opens in January. Teams must be members of the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) and pay an entry fee ($500–$750 depending on category). Registration includes a designated cooking space, access to utilities, and eligibility for judging in four categories: ribs, pork shoulder, chicken, and brisket.

Teams are assigned spots on a first-come, first-served basis. Once registered, you’ll receive a team packet with rules, judging criteria, and a schedule. Remember: all teams must adhere to strict KCBS guidelines on ingredients, cooking methods, and presentation.

6. Create a Daily Itinerary

To maximize your experience, map out your day before you arrive. Here’s a sample schedule for a first-time attendee:

• 9:00 AM: Arrive early to beat crowds and secure a good viewing spot near the judging tent.
• 10:00 AM: Watch the official judging process—this is where the magic happens. Judges sample entries blind, scoring on appearance, taste, and tenderness.
• 11:30 AM: Explore the vendor booths. Look for local artisans, BBQ sauce makers, and specialty grills.
• 1:00 PM: Attend a live cooking demo by a past champion. These are educational and often include Q&A.
• 3:00 PM: Sample entries from different teams. Many offer small tastings for a small fee ($5–$10).
• 5:00 PM: Enjoy live music on the main stage. Blues, soul, and Americana dominate the lineup.
• 7:00 PM: Dinner at one of the food halls or food trucks. Try the signature Memphis-style dry rub ribs.
• 8:30 PM: Return to the judging area for preliminary results announcements.

Always carry a portable charger, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and comfortable shoes. The event spans over 20 acres and involves a lot of walking.

7. Learn How to Taste Like a Judge

One of the most overlooked aspects of attending the WCBCC is learning how to evaluate barbecue like a professional judge. KCBS judges are trained to assess entries on three criteria:

• Appearance (25%): Is the meat visually appealing? Is there a good bark on ribs? Is there consistent color and minimal dryness?
• Taste (50%): Is the flavor balanced? Is the rub flavorful without being overpowering? Is the sauce complementary or distracting?
• Tenderness (25%): Does the meat pull apart easily? Is it moist or dry? Is there resistance or mushiness?

Practice this method as you sample entries. Take small bites. Chew slowly. Note the first impression, the aftertaste, and the texture. This not only enhances your appreciation but also helps you identify which teams are truly exceptional.

Best Practices

1. Arrive Early, Stay Late

The first two hours of the day are the quietest. This is when you can observe teams preparing their meat without crowds, watch the meticulous application of rubs and sauces, and even chat with pitmasters. Many champions are happy to share tips if approached respectfully.

Staying until the end of the day allows you to witness the award ceremony, where the Grand Champion is announced. The energy in the crowd is electric, and the winning team is often interviewed live on stage. It’s the perfect way to close your experience.

2. Bring Cash and Small Bills

While many vendors accept credit cards, some of the most popular food trucks, BBQ sample stations, and merchandise booths operate on a cash-only basis. Bring at least $100 in small denominations ($1, $5, $10 bills) to avoid missing out on limited-edition sauces, hats, or smoked meat samples.

3. Dress for the Weather and the Environment

Memphis in May can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 85°F. Wear breathable, light-colored clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential—ground surfaces can be uneven, and you’ll be on your feet for hours.

Also, be prepared for the smell. The air is thick with smoke, spices, and grilling meat. Some attendees bring a small bottle of peppermint oil or a handkerchief lightly dampened with citrus to refresh their senses between tastings.

4. Respect the Teams and the Process

These are not food stalls—they are professional kitchens operating under strict rules. Do not touch equipment, lean over cooking pits, or ask for samples unless the team explicitly invites you. Many teams spend months perfecting their recipes and are under intense pressure during judging. A respectful attitude goes a long way.

5. Engage with the Community

The WCBCC is as much about people as it is about food. Strike up conversations with fellow attendees, pitmasters, and vendors. Many have fascinating stories—former engineers turned pitmasters, retired teachers who started BBQ businesses after losing their jobs, or veterans who found healing through smoking meat.

Join the official Facebook group or Reddit community (r/BBQContest) before you go. Members often organize meetups, share parking tips, and even coordinate group tastings. You’ll make connections that extend far beyond the event.

6. Sample Strategically

Don’t try to taste everything. Instead, pick 5–7 teams that represent different styles: Memphis dry rub, Texas brisket, Kansas City sweet sauce, Alabama white sauce. Compare them side by side. Take notes. This turns your visit into a culinary education.

Many teams offer “taste tickets” for $5–$10. These are worth every penny. Some of the most memorable flavors come from underdog teams with humble setups but extraordinary technique.

7. Capture the Experience Thoughtfully

Bring a camera or smartphone, but don’t spend your entire time behind the lens. Take photos of the food, the people, the smoke curling into the sky—but also put the device down and soak in the moment. Record audio snippets of the music, the laughter, the sizzle of meat. These will become cherished memories.

Consider starting a blog or Instagram account to document your journey. Many attendees turn their WCBCC experience into a long-term passion project, eventually launching their own BBQ ventures.

Tools and Resources

Official Websites

• Memphis in May – memphisinmay.org – The primary source for tickets, schedules, maps, and event updates.
• Kansas City Barbeque Society – kcbs.us – Rules, judging guidelines, team registration, and certification information.
• BBQ Search – bbqsearch.com – A database of competing teams, their histories, and past rankings.

Mobile Apps

• Memphis in May Festival App – Available on iOS and Android. Includes real-time maps, stage schedules, team locations, and push notifications for award announcements.
• BBQ Tracker – Allows users to rate and review teams they’ve sampled. Great for comparing notes with other attendees.
• Google Maps Offline – Download the Tom Lee Park area in advance. Cell service can be spotty in crowded zones.

Essential Gear

• Reusable water bottle with filter – Stay hydrated without buying plastic bottles.
• Portable fan or misting spray – Helps combat the heat and smoke.
• Snacks and energy bars – Food lines can be long; keep your energy up.
• Small notebook and pen – For jotting down team names, flavors, and impressions.
• Lightweight folding chair – Useful for resting during live performances or waiting for results.
• Ziplock bags and paper towels – For carrying home sauce samples or cleaning sticky fingers.

Learning Resources

• “The Barbecue Bible” by Steven Raichlen – A foundational text on techniques, rubs, and smoking methods.
• “Smoke & Spice” by Cheryl and Bill Jamison – Offers deep insight into regional BBQ styles and history.
• YouTube Channels: “BBQ Pitmasters,” “The BBQ Guys,” and “Amazing Ribs” – Free tutorials on rubs, sauces, and meat selection.
• Podcasts: “The BBQ Podcast” and “Smoked” – Interviews with champions and behind-the-scenes stories.

Community and Networking

Join the KCBS Facebook group or the r/BBQContest subreddit. These communities are active year-round and offer:

• Team recommendations
• Travel tips for out-of-town visitors
• Contest results and historical data
• Opportunities to volunteer or intern with teams

Many teams welcome volunteers to help with setup, serving, or cleanup in exchange for free food and access. It’s a great way to get inside the experience.

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Time Attendee – Sarah from Chicago

Sarah had never been to Memphis before. She bought a weekend pass and stayed at a hotel in Downtown. Her plan: arrive Thursday afternoon, sample three teams, and attend the Saturday judging.

She arrived early Friday morning and watched the judging process for 90 minutes. She noticed how judges rinsed their palates with water and unsalted crackers between bites. She took notes on the texture of each rib and which sauces stood out.

By Saturday evening, she had sampled 12 teams and had a clear favorite: “Smoke & Honey,” a team from Nashville. Their brisket had a perfect bark and a subtle hint of maple in the rub. She bought a bottle of their sauce and started a blog about her experience.

Two years later, Sarah entered a local BBQ contest—and won first place. She credits the WCBCC for teaching her how to taste critically and respect the craft.

Example 2: The Competitive Team – “Pit Boss BBQ” from Texas

Pit Boss BBQ, a team of three former firefighters, entered the WCBCC for the first time in 2019. They spent six months perfecting their recipe, testing 47 different rub blends, and practicing in their backyard smoker.

They arrived on Wednesday and spent 12 hours setting up their rig. They used a custom-built offset smoker and a digital thermometer system to monitor internal temps. They didn’t offer samples to the public—only to judges—following KCBS rules strictly.

On Saturday, they placed third in brisket and won “Best Overall Presentation.” Their secret? A 24-hour dry brine, a blend of coffee and ancho chile in the rub, and a 14-hour smoke using post oak.

They now run a BBQ school in Austin and are regulars at the WCBCC. Their story is featured on the official Memphis in May website as an example of grassroots excellence.

Example 3: The Family Tradition – The Rodriguez Family from Florida

The Rodriguez family has attended the WCBCC every year since 2015. Their children—now 14, 12, and 9—have grown up learning about barbecue culture. Each year, they assign a “BBQ Mission”: one child researches the history of Memphis-style ribs, another interviews a pitmaster, and the third samples five sauces and ranks them.

Last year, their 9-year-old won the “Kids’ Taste Test” contest, where children vote for their favorite team. The family received a trophy and a feature in the Memphis Commercial Appeal.

They now bring a custom cooler with their own rub and sauce to share with other families. “It’s not just about eating,” says their mother. “It’s about passing down a love for food, patience, and community.”

Example 4: The Digital Creator – Marcus, the BBQ Vlogger

Marcus, a content creator from Atlanta, turned his WCBCC visit into a 12-part YouTube series. He filmed behind-the-scenes footage of teams prepping at 4 a.m., interviewed judges about their scoring criteria, and even did a blind taste test with three strangers.

His video “What It’s Like to Be a BBQ Judge” went viral, amassing over 2 million views. He now partners with KCBS to produce educational content and was invited to speak at the 2024 festival as a guest presenter.

His advice: “Don’t just consume the experience—document it, analyze it, and share it. The world wants to know how this magic happens.”

FAQs

Can I bring my own food and drinks to the WCBCC?

Yes, you may bring sealed bottled water and non-alcoholic beverages. Coolers are allowed but subject to inspection. Outside alcohol is prohibited. Food is available from dozens of vendors, so bringing your own meals is rarely necessary.

Is the event wheelchair accessible?

Yes. All areas of Tom Lee Park are ADA-compliant. Ramps, accessible restrooms, and designated viewing areas are provided. Electric scooters and wheelchairs can be rented on-site through the Memphis in May information booth.

Can children attend?

Yes. The event is family-friendly, and children under 12 enter for free. There are dedicated kids’ zones with face painting, BBQ-themed games, and educational exhibits on food science.

Do I need to be a KCBS member to attend as a spectator?

No. KCBS membership is only required for competitors. Spectators can attend with a general admission ticket.

What happens if it rains?

The event is held rain or shine. Most cooking areas are covered, and the festival grounds have pavilions and tents. Bring a lightweight rain jacket or poncho. The smell of wet smoke is unforgettable—and sometimes even better.

Can I buy meat to take home?

Yes. Many teams sell pre-packaged, fully cooked meat in sealed containers. Some offer frozen portions for shipping. Look for signs that say “Take Home BBQ” or ask vendors directly.

Are pets allowed?

No. Only service animals are permitted. The heat, crowds, and smoke make the environment unsuitable for pets.

How do I find out who won?

Results are posted live on the Memphis in May app and website. The Grand Champion is announced on Sunday afternoon during the award ceremony. You can also follow @MemphisInMay on social media for real-time updates.

Is there a way to volunteer?

Yes. Volunteers assist with setup, crowd control, judging support, and cleanup. Applications open in February. Volunteers receive a free ticket, meal vouchers, and a commemorative shirt.

Can I bring a drone to film the event?

No. Drone use is strictly prohibited without prior written permission from event organizers due to safety and privacy concerns.

Conclusion

The World Championship BBQ Cooking Contest is more than a competition—it’s a living celebration of tradition, innovation, and community. To attend is to step into a world where hours of labor, generations of knowledge, and pure passion are reduced to a single bite. Whether you come as a spectator, a foodie, a photographer, or a future competitor, your experience will be shaped by how deeply you engage with it.

This guide has provided you with the roadmap: from securing tickets and lodging, to understanding judging criteria, to interacting respectfully with teams and fellow attendees. But the true value of the WCBCC lies not in the checklist—it lies in the moments you didn’t plan for: the shared laugh over a too-spicy sample, the quiet awe as a pitmaster lifts the lid on a perfectly smoked brisket, the sound of blues drifting over the Mississippi as the sun sets.

Prepare well. Arrive with curiosity. Leave with a full heart and a new appreciation for the art of smoke and time. The World Championship BBQ Cooking Contest doesn’t just feed your stomach—it feeds your soul. And that’s why, year after year, people return.