World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest

The Memphis In May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest is turning up the heat in 2026 with an exciting lineup of live entertainment, interactive experiences, and fan-favorite activations designed to deliver more flavor, fun, and unforgettable moments than ever before.

Hosted by Memphis in May International Festival, the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest (WCBCC) returns to Liberty Park, bringing together over 200 barbecue teams and championship pitmasters from 27 states and 7 countries. Music lovers, families, and barbecue enthusiasts from around the globe will come together in Liberty Park Memphis for a four-day celebration of food, music, culture, and community. (May 13th – 16th).