Tampa Bay Barbecue Competition Details

Barbecue Competition Rules & Details | Apply Here | 2024 Results

Judging Details

Judging Day: Saturday, January 11th, during the festival (1 PM – 5 PM).
Judging Process:
- Each food vendor will be assigned a number to ensure blind judging.
- Submissions must be brought to the designated area at assigned times.
- Vendors prepare Styrofoam containers for each category, with small portions for 6 judges.
- Containers must be labeled with the assigned vendor number.
Judging Criteria:
1. Taste/Flavor
2. Tenderness/Texture
Categories: Brisket, Pulled Pork, Ribs, and Chicken.
Disqualification: Late submissions will not be judged.

Participation Rules

No Entry Fee for the competition.
Vendors are not required to participate in the judging competition but must:
1. Enter the VIP Brisket Competition (details below).
2. Sell food to the public for both festival days.
Vendors are charged a 15% fee on total sales, with sales reports due post-event.

Team & Setup Information

Open to all skill levels; approximately 14-18 teams will participate.
Teams can begin setup at 9 AM on Friday, January 10th. Overnight stay onsite is optional.
Vendors are provided a 20x20 space.
Teams may sell merchandise, sauces, side dishes, soft drinks, and water.
Meat will not be inspected.
Food sales will shut down on Sunday from 6 PM – 6:30 PM for the winners’ announcements.

Prizes

Grand Champion: $500 payout + Award.
Category Winners (Brisket, Ribs, Chicken, Pulled Pork): Each winner receives 15% of the prize pool + Award.

VIP Brisket Competition Details:

VIP Area Sampling

Volunteers/Staff will prepare and serve brisket samples to VIP attendees in the VIP area.

VIP Brisket Competition Payout:

If you have any questions, please e-mail us.