World BBQ Championship 2025

Come witness the competition on one of the world's biggest barbecue stages!

The World Championship Bar-B-Que Contest is a prestigious yearly event that launches the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Founded in 1974, it has grown to be one of the biggest barbecue contests in the United States.

Since its founding, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo have dedicated over $575 million to supporting Texas youth and education The international festival of Bar-B-Que Contest is a key contributor to these fundraising activities.

The 2025 World Championship Barbecue Contest will be held at NRG Park in Houston from February 27 to March 1.

What to Expect When Attending World BBQ Championship 2025

Over 250 teams take part in the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest. Although most team tents are exclusive to invitees, attendees can explore public areas like The Garden Stage. In addition, the Carnival area features exciting rides and entertaining games for all ages.

The Garden Stage features a mix of emerging and well-known Texas country music artists. The Rockin’ Bar-B-Que Saloon offers live music, DJ performances, and an outdoor patio for guests to relax. Patrons can grab their complimentary BBQ plate at the Chuckwagon within the saloon.

You can expect an atmosphere filled with the rich aroma of slow-cooked meats, smoky flavors, and the sound of sizzling grills. As a major culinary competition, the championship typically features various prestigious barbecue contests across multiple categories, including ribs, hot wings, brisket, pulled pork, chicken, and even unique BBQ styles from different cultures.

The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest includes public events. Live cooking demos by top BBQ chefs provide tips on grilling techniques and recipes. Special tasting events let you sample BBQ from competitors and local vendors. You can also enjoy a lively atmosphere with music, food trucks, and family activities and attend BBQ workshops to enhance your skills at home.

Expect intense rivalry as teams compete for the prestigious World Champion of Barbecue title and cash prizes. Judges will evaluate the dishes based on taste, tenderness, and presentation. Backyard barbecue pros and first-time competitors will both compete. Meanwhile, the event will offer something for everyone, from dedicated BBQ fans looking for the best bites to families enjoying the celebrations and atmosphere.

In late February and early March, Houston experiences mild to cool temperatures. Daytime highs range from 60 F to 75 F (16–24 C), with occasional warm spells or cold fronts. Evenings see temperatures drop to 40 F to 55 F (4–13 C), which can feel chilly after sunset. February and March are part of the rainy season, with moderate chances of showers or thunderstorms. Be prepared for brief rain, and consider bringing an umbrella or a waterproof jacket.

Tickets

Purchase your ticket here. A ticket is valid for any day you choose, the price for adults is $26, and for kids, it’s $10.

Security Protocols

• Bag checks: Expect mandatory bag checks at the entrance to the event area. Large bags, coolers, and backpacks will be prohibited, so it’s best to bring a small, clear bag or a small backpack.
• Security screening: Security personnel will screen attendees as they enter, using metal detectors to check for prohibited items like weapons or large containers.
• Prohibited items: Common prohibited items include alcohol, large umbrellas, weapons, drones, fireworks, and sometimes large coolers or chairs.
• Event staff and security personnel: There will be a visible presence of uniform and plainclothes security personnel throughout the event to ensure safety and assist with crowd management.

How to Get To or From the Event

Here's how to reach the venue:

• Car: Houston is accessible by major highways, such as Interstate 10 (I-10), Interstate 45 (I-45), and Interstate 59 (I-59), if you're coming from within Texas or nearby states. Houston’s downtown area offers many parking options, including paid lots and garages.
• METRO Rail: The Red Line and Green Line of the METRO Rail system service parts of downtown Houston, which, depending on its location, could be close to the event venue. The METRO system offers affordable fares and is a good alternative to driving.
• METRO Bus: Several bus lines run through Houston. You can check routes and schedules online. Bus routes going downtown or near the event site could be convenient options.
• Amtrak: If you're traveling from out of state, you can take an Amtrak train to Houston’s Amtrak Station, located about 3 miles from downtown. You can take a taxi, ride-share, or public transit to the event from there.

World BBQ Championship 2025 Bag Policy

It's best to carry clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags. The size limit is typically 12" x 6" x 12" (about the size of a small purse or tote).

Since there's no information on storage option at the venue, feel free to contact Bounce!

Bounce is the luggage storage network that’s everywhere you are, with 15,000+ locations in 4,000+ cities worldwide. With $10,000 bag protection and a 4.9 App Store rating, you can trust Bounce to keep your stuff safe wherever you are. Just book in a few taps, drop off your bags, and make the most of your day.

World BBQ Championship 2025 Bag Storage

Store Your Luggage With Bounce and Dive Into a BBQ World

It's up to you to choose the location in Houston. Book the place that suits you and pay online.

You can find our platform online on a website or mobile app.

The price is only $4.10 per day! We offer full support all day and night and no cancellation fee if you change your plans!

How to Stow Your Bag at World BBQ Championship 2025 With Bounce

• Book in three steps: Choose a location, book the place, and pay online.
• Arrive at the location: With the payment confirmation, leave your bags at the chosen location.
• Enjoy: Don't worry about your belongings, and participate in this exciting show!

How to Make the Most Out of World BBQ Championship 2025

• Watch cooking teams in action: The heart of the event is the BBQ competitions. Be sure to stop by and watch the teams cook, especially if you have a chance to see different BBQ styles from around the country.
• Taste as much as you can: BBQ teams will show their best recipes, so there will be plenty of tasting opportunities. Try different types of BBQ, from ribs and brisket to pulled pork and whole hog, to discover new flavors!

The ultimate barbecue experience is waiting for you. Visit Houston, store your luggage with Bounce, and head to the World BBQ Championship!