Arkansas cook-offs
Arkansas runs a steady KCBS-sanctioned BBQ calendar from April through October at fair grounds and outdoor venues across the state. The state's geography — bordering Missouri's KC tradition to the north and Memphis to the east — pulls Arkansas teams into both regional scenes, and the Little Rock and Fort Smith metros concentrate the larger contests.
Downtown Jonesboro BBQ Festival
Sep 25 – Sep 26, 2026
Jonesboro, AR
Jonesboro, AR
Airstreams on the Square Chili Cook-off
Sat, Oct 17, 2026
El Dorado Downtown
El Dorado, AR
Arkansas State Chili Championship
Sat, Oct 17, 2026
Prairie Grove, AR
Prairie Grove, AR
Fire on the Water
Oct 23 – Oct 24, 2026
Lake Village, AR
Lake Village, AR
Bison Show Up & Shine Steak Cookoff @ Carlisle, AR
Fri, Nov 27, 2026
Carlisle, AR
Carlisle, AR
Arkansas State Championship
Sat, Nov 28, 2026
Carlisle, AR
Carlisle, AR
University of Arkansas Animal Science Boots, Brews, and BBQ Contest (Day 1)
Mar 12 – Mar 13, 2027
Pauline Whitaker Animal Science Center
Fayetteville, AR
University of Arkansas Animal Science Boots, Brews, and BBQ Contest (Day 2)
Mar 13 – Mar 14, 2027
Pauline Whitaker Animal Science Center
Fayetteville, AR