46th Annual American Royal BBQ

The World’s Largest Barbecue Competition Is Firing Up Right in Our Backyard American Royal World Series of Barbecue is returning to smoke out the competition once again. For five straight days, hundreds of championship pitmaster teams will battle it out across brisket, ribs, chicken, and sauce categories, filling the air with the smoky aromas that put KC on the map as the true capital of barbecue. Beyond the competition, expect live music, family-friendly activities like Kids Que, and the ultimate tailgate atmosphere — think lawn chairs, cold drinks, and the best backyard cooks in the world showing off their skills. Whether you’re a lifelong local or visiting for the first time, this is barbecue culture at its most electric, welcoming everyone to come hungry and leave a believer. Event Details: Venue: American Royal – Kansas City, Kansas (near Kansas Speedway) Dates: September 30 – October 4, 2026 Admission: Open to the public Don’t miss your shot at the world’s biggest barbecue party — grab your tickets now before this smoky showdown sells out!