The Southeastern BBQ Showdown is gearing up for its extremely anticipated return to Columbia, South Carolina, on April 24-25, 2026. Following the resounding success of its inaugural occasion in September 2024, which garnered nationwide consideration and aired on Bally Sports activities, the thrill continues to construct because the occasion is about to debut on the Cooking Channel in April 2025. This can present audiences with a tantalizing preview of the mouthwatering BBQ and thrilling experiences deliberate for 2026. deliberate for 2026. This fiery celebration of BBQ tradition is gearing as much as be even greater and extra unforgettable!
A Taste-Crammed Weekend to Bear in mind
The Southeastern BBQ Showdown isn’t simply one other meals competition—it’s a meals sport competitors that brings collectively one of the best pitmasters from throughout the nation to battle it out for the coveted Grand Champion title. On the 2024 occasion, groups from states like Texas, Georgia, and throughout South Carolina, and even Japan lit up the competitors with daring flavors and mouthwatering dishes. With the bar set excessive, 2026 guarantees an excellent fiercer contest, that includes elite BBQ groups and a brand new crop of celeb judges able to crown the champions.
This weekend-long celebration of meals, music, and enjoyable affords one thing for everybody. Company can pattern world-class BBQ, discover interactive reveals, and luxuriate in stay music. Whether or not you’re a die-hard foodie or simply searching for an unforgettable weekend, that is the place to be.
Wanting Again on the 2024 Champions
The 2024 Southeastern BBQ Showdown set the stage for greatness with First Class BBQ from Texas taking house the Grand Champion title and $10,000 in prize cash. Led by Head Chef Robert Smith, the staff impressed judges with their unbeatable flavors and flawless strategies. Will First Class BBQ return to defend their crown in 2026? Or will one other staff rise to say the title? The competitors is large open, and the anticipation is already constructing.
Star-Studded Judges Panel
The 2024 Showdown made historical past with its spectacular lineup of celeb judges, together with WWE Corridor of Famer Mark Henry, referred to as “The World’s Strongest Man,” and Chef Brian Duffy, a famend culinary professional from Meals Community’s Bar Rescue. Alongside Mayor Daniel Rickenmann of Columbia, SC, they introduced experience, pleasure, and aptitude to the judging panel, additional elevating the competitors’s status. Their involvement underscored the Showdown’s dedication to celebrating
BBQ tradition on a grand stage.
Because the 2026 competitors approaches, one can’t assist however surprise: Who will sit on the coveted judges’ desk this time? Will one other culinary icon be part of the ranks, bringing their experience to the showdown? May there be a shock visitor—a celeb with a secret ardour for BBQ? Keep tuned for thrilling bulletins within the main as much as the occasion.
Plan Your 2026 BBQ Journey
Tickets for the Southeastern BBQ Showdown will go on sale early subsequent yr, and if the 2024 occasion was any indication, they’ll promote out quick. Normal admission and VIP packages can be accessible, with unique perks and reserved seating.
For out-of-town guests, Columbia affords loads of resort choices to swimsuit each finances. Make it a weekend getaway and discover all the things the Capital Metropolis/Lake Murray Nation area has to supply, from scenic lake views to vibrant downtown points of interest.
Don’t Miss the 2026 Showdown
The Southeastern BBQ Showdown is greater than an occasion—it’s a celebration of group, tradition, and the irresistible attract of BBQ. With award-winning groups, stay music, and unforgettable experiences, it’s a must-attend weekend for anybody who loves nice meals and nice occasions. Mark your calendars for April 24-25, 2026, and keep tuned for extra particulars. Comply with @SoutheasternBBQShowdown on social media and go to SoutheasternBBQShowdown.com for the newest updates.
Get able to eat, dance, and cheer—as a result of the 2026 Southeastern BBQ Showdown is coming, and it’s bringing the warmth!
