KCBS World Invitational Championship - 2026
Join Us at the Annual KCBS World Invitational Barbeque Championship & BBQ Village
– Fun and Food for the Whole Family –
James E. Ward Agricultural Center (Wilson County Fairgrounds)
Lebanon, TN May 22-24, 2026.
Whether you're a BBQ enthusiast, foodie, or just looking for a great time, the KCBS World Invitational promises an exciting weekend for everyone!
REGISTRATION COMING SOON
Check back for more details!
Champion pitmasters at the top of their game will compete for $70,000 in prize money, and the KCBS World Champion title at the 8th annual KCBS World Invitational Barbeque Competition held at the James E. Ward Agricultural Center (Wilson County Fairground) in Lebanon, TN May 22-24, 2026.
Friday, May 22, 2026: the KCBS World Invitational kicks off.
Saturday, May 23, 2026: KCBS hosts the Wells Cup (Open) featuring Backyard teams and Master Series teams from around the world going head-to-head. Teams compete in the Dessert Contest showcasing their creative talents and the Holladay Cocktail Competition demonstrating their mixology skills to highlight Holladay Distillery spirits. KCBS members in good standing can compete in the Master Series Wells Cup.
Sunday, May 24, 2026: The top teams worldwide will compete at the Master Series Invitational and the Backyard Series Invitational battling for the KCBS World Champion titles.
To qualify to compete for cash, trophies, and bragging rights
- Master Series teams must have won a Grand Championship or Reserve Grand Championship between March 1, 2024-Feb. 28, 2026.
- Backyard Series teams must win 1st place Chicken, 1st place Ribs, Grand Champion, or Reserve Grand Champion at a KCBS-sanctioned Backyard contest between March 1, 2024-Feb. 28, 2026 (Nov. 10, 2024- Feb. 28, 2026 for GC & RGC).
On Saturday, May 23, kids age 6 thru 16 can compete in our Kids Que.
The 6 to 10-year-olds competing in the Kid’s Que will cook a burger and assemble a Mystery Dessert Box.
The 11 to 16- year-olds competing in the Junior Q will cook a burger and a steak. This event is limited to 50 contestants, 25 per age group.
Only a $20 Entry Fee!
Registration Coming Soon!
Planning to attend the 2026 World Invitational and need to book a hotel? Come back soon for information on our exclusive group rates!
Come back soon for more details!
The KCBS World Invitational kicks off with ancillary competitions, open to all KCBS Teams in good standing.
Come back soon for more details!
Interested in sponsoring an ancillary competition at the KCBS World Invitational? Showcase your brand to barbeque enthusiasts while aligning with a custom category, such as Ribs, Chicken, Anything But, or Desserts, and gaining visibility at one of the top events in competition barbeque!
Email marketing@kcbs.us for more information.
REGISTRATION COMING SOON
All KCBS World Invitational qualifiers and competitors must be members in good standing of the Kansas City Barbeque Society.
Confirm your membership at www.kcbs.us or call the office at 1-800-963-5227.
VENDOR APPLICATION COMING SOON
This year’s event is bigger and better than ever with plenty of ways to get involved! Whether that be assisting in planning, helping on-site, or assisting afterward -- come be a part of the excitement! Your involvement is key to making this event a success.
Apply to volunteer at the link below:
Volunteer Application Coming Soon!
Certified Barbeque Judge, Table Captain, and Volunteer applications are COMING SOON!
For judges, please note that there are separate applications for each day of the World Invitational. Please apply to each day that you are interested in judging.
Master CBJs will receive preferential seating at the KCBS World Invitational. JCUP certification is required for all CBJs. Judges must be willing to Judge, Table Captain, or Volunteer in the Judging Tent.
Judges must be KCBS Certified Barbeque Judges whose membership is in good standing at the time of service. Join now or ensure your membership is in good standing at www.kcbs.us or call the office at 1-800-963-5227.
