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American BBQ Battle

Date and Time

Saturday, September 26, 2026, 6:00 AM until 5:00 PM

Location

Suncook River Campground
2 Fanny Dr
Suncook, NH  03275
USA

Category

NEBS Contest

Registration Info

Registration is required

About this event

CALLING ALL AMATEUR PITMASTERS!

Think you have what it takes to rule the grill? Proven yourself in the backyard but never headlined a KCBS event? This is your moment.

Amateur Only: Open only to head cooks who have never competed in a KCBS event.


THE COMPETITION CATEGORIES
Show the judges what you've got across four distinct battles:
  • CHICKEN: Wings, drums, or thighs only. Standard garnish mandatory.
  • RIBS: Pork loin back, baby back, spare, or St. Louis ribs. Standard garnish mandatory.
  • ANYTHING SAUSAGE: Ultimate chef's creativity. Open garnish—anything goes!
  • PEOPLE'S CHOICE (PULLED PORK): Smoke it on-site or pre-cook. Bring 200 1oz samples. Serving cups, forks, and napkins will be provided. The Twist: Your sauce must include a secret fruit element!

THE REWARDS
Cash prizes and trophies will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place in every single category, including People's Choice.
The ultimate backyard braggers will walk away with the Reserve Grand Champion and Grand Champion titles for the highest combined scores!

KEY EVENT RULES & INFO
  • Amateur Only: Open strictly to head cooks who have never competed in a KCBS event.
  • Site Perks: Generous 20’ x 20’ cook sites. Water, electricity, trash, and ash disposal are all provided.
  • Blind Judging: Standard NEBS double-blind scoring based on Appearance, Taste, and Texture.
  • Meat Inspection: All competition meat must be raw and unseasoned upon arrival. Prep and trim at home, but save the rubs and marinades for after inspection!
  • Safety First: Proper food handling and cleaning standards are expected. A fire extinguisher is recommended.
Note: This contest is not eligible for NEBS TOY points.

Complete Contest Details and Rules can be found in the Cooks Packet
2026 American BBQ Battle Cooks Packet

Register On line with the following buttons
2026 American BBQ Battle Team Registration

2026 American BBQ Battle Judge Registration