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Everything is bigger in Texas, and that includes BBQ. Every year, the heart of Austin beats with the smoky aroma of slow-cooked brisket, sizzling ribs, and perfectly grilled sausages as BBQ Austin takes over the city. This legendary barbecue showdown is part of Rodeo Austin, an event that brings together pitmasters, food lovers, and rodeo enthusiasts for a celebration of Texas’ rich BBQ tradition. Whether you're a seasoned BBQ fan, a budding pitmaster, or just someone who loves a good plate of smoked perfection, BBQ Austin has something for everyone.
BBQ Austin Cook-Off: Where the Best Go Head-to-Head
One of the biggest draws of BBQ Austin is its highly competitive BBQ Cook-Off, where pitmasters from across Texas (and beyond) fire up their smokers to battle for the title of Grand Champion. Teams set up elaborate BBQ rigs, each bringing their unique blend of rubs, marinades, and smoking techniques to impress the judges. The competition categories include:
Brisket – The crown jewel of Texas BBQ, judged on tenderness, smokiness, and perfect bark.
Ribs – Whether beef or pork, the goal is a juicy, flavorful bite with a perfect smoke ring.
Chicken – An often-underestimated category, where pitmasters showcase their skills in keeping poultry moist and flavorful.
Sausage – Handcrafted links that deliver bold Texas-sized flavors.
Desserts & Sides – No BBQ feast is complete without the perfect sides, from smoked mac & cheese to peach cobbler.
Judges take their job seriously, scoring each entry based on appearance, taste, and texture. But beyond the competition, the cook-off is an incredible display of community, craftsmanship, and pure passion for the art of BBQ.
The Junior Pitmaster Contest: Inspiring the Next Generation
BBQ Austin isn’t just for seasoned pros—it’s also about nurturing the future of Texas BBQ through the Junior Pitmaster Contest. Young chefs between the ages of 8 and 17 get the chance to showcase their skills and creativity on the grill.
These future BBQ legends compete in categories like burgers, ribs, and pork chops, showing off impressive techniques while learning from experienced mentors. The contest emphasizes BBQ education, teamwork, and creativity, making it a must-see event for families and aspiring pitmasters alike.
BBQ Austin University: Mastering the Pit
If you've ever wanted to up your BBQ game, BBQ Austin University is the place to be. This hands-on educational experience brings together BBQ legends to teach the secrets behind great Texas BBQ.
Attendees can expect lessons on:
Fire management – Understanding wood types, temperatures, and airflow for perfect slow cooking.
Brisket trimming and seasoning – Learn how to prepare a brisket like the pros.
Smoking techniques – Low and slow, direct grilling, and hybrid methods.
Sauce and rub crafting – Discover how to balance sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors.
Whether you’re an amateur griller or a backyard BBQ champion looking to go pro, these sessions are packed with insider tips and tricks.
The Festival Atmosphere: Food, Music & Texas Spirit
Beyond the competition, BBQ Austin is a full-blown festival with live country music, family-friendly activities, and plenty of food vendors serving up mouthwatering BBQ plates. Expect to see Texas flags waving, cowboy hats in abundance, and boots stomping to live bands playing everything from bluegrass to classic country hits.
Families can enjoy activities like:
Live entertainment – Local bands and rodeo-themed performances.
Carnival rides – A fun way to take a break between BBQ tastings.
Meet the pitmasters – Get up close with some of the biggest names in Texas BBQ.
Why BBQ Austin is a Must-Visit Event
BBQ Austin isn’t just a competition; it’s a cultural experience that celebrates everything great about Texas BBQ. From the fierce pitmaster rivalries to the warm hospitality and shared love for smoky, delicious meats, this event embodies the spirit of Texas.
Whether you're there to compete, learn, or just eat your way through the event, BBQ Austin promises a weekend of unforgettable flavors, fun, and Texas pride.
Join the Action at BBQ Austin!
Mark your calendars, bring your appetite, and prepare for a smoky, flavorful adventure at BBQ Austin at Rodeo Austin. Whether you're a competitor, a future BBQ master, or simply a BBQ lover, this is one Texas event you don’t want to miss.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
March 7, 2025
12:00pm Event Open to Public
12:00pm Chief Cooks Meeting
5:00pm BBQ Sauce Turn In
7:00pm Jack Pot Turn In
11:00pm Public Event Closes
March 8, 2025
9:30am Bloody Mary Turn In
11:00am Event Open to Public
11:30am Bean Turn In
1:30pm Chicken Turn In
3:30pm Ribs Turn In
5:30pm Brisket Turn In
11:00pm Public Event Closes
March 9, 2025
10:00am Awards Ceremony
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