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.
CTO Smoke & Iron
Jul 31 – Aug 1, 2026
Bentonville BBQ Grounds
Bentonville, AR
Laura Fletcher Cooking for a Cure – Double Points Contest
Sep 11 – Sep 12, 2026
Blytheville BBQ Grounds
Blytheville, AR
Smoking BBQ for Vets
Sep 18 – Sep 19, 2026
West Memphis BBQ Grounds
West Memphis, AR
Downtown Jonesboro BBQ Festival
Sep 25 – Sep 26, 2026
Jonesboro BBQ Grounds
Jonesboro, 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