The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, celebrated for sparking the vibrant spirit of Memphis in its annual display of culinary mastery, has unveiled an enthralling lineup of entertainment and educational sessions set to take Liberty Park by storm from May 15-18, 2024. Now in its 46th year, the contest promises an even richer experience, marked by nightly entertainment on the Cattlemen’s Main Stage featuring Barbecue Sauce Wrestling, performances by Marcy Playground, Ingram Hill, and DJ MicTee from K97.
The revered contest, known for gathering the crème de la crème of barbecue enthusiasts, expands its offerings with the introduction of expert-led grilling demonstrations at The Home Depot Outdoor Kitchen. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to learn from barbecue luminaries such as Moe Cason and Chris Lilly, ensuring a blend of savory learning experiences with the fun of sampling.
Adding to the allure, The McCormick Demo Stage and The Cooker Caravan with Heath Riles BBQ will offer culinary tips and behind-the-scenes access to competition teams, while The Kingsford Tour of Champions and BBQ Alley promise interactive tasting adventures. The VIPit Experience elevates the barbecue pilgrimage to luxury, allowing aficionados an exclusive peek into the world of competitive barbecue guided by industry giants.
Memphis in May continues to champion the future of barbecue, with The Future of Q and partnership efforts highlighting the talents of junior pitmasters and aspiring chefs from the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Memphis. These initiatives underscore the event’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of barbecue greats while celebrating the rich culinary heritage that defines Memphis.
With a diverse array of teams from across the globe competing for the prestigious title of Memphis in May World Champion, this year’s contest is poised to be a landmark celebration of barbecue culture. According to Mack Weaver, President & CEO of Memphis in May, the event encapsulates the soul of Memphis, offering a warm invitation to all to partake in what is poised to be the city’s “biggest, friendliest backyard barbecue.”
For those eager to immerse themselves in the heart of Memphis’ barbecue tradition, tickets are now on sale, offering a spectrum of experiences from general admission to the exclusive VIPit experience.
For detailed information on tickets and the full event schedule, visit memphisinmay.org/wcbcctickets