Be a part of the celebration! Join the BBQ Cook-off judging, enjoy some great barbecue, and vote for your favorites!
Who can be a judge? Anyone! If you're 18 or older, your opinion matters. (Must be 21 or older to judge the Jackpot Margaritas.)
Do I have to be an expert? You already are! You like to eat, and you know what you like. The super friendly head judges will also be there to explain everything, so the judging is fair and fun.
How much BBQ do I have to eat? None, actually; you only need to taste. But most judges will eat as much as they can!
How long does it last? Each judging category lasts from an hour to an hour and a half.
Do I have to judge everything? Nope! You can judge just one category (Chicken, Pork Spare Ribs, or Beef Brisket), or two, or all three. There's also the Jackpot Margaritas and the Jackpot Beans judging.
July is HOT! Which is why the judging is indoors! Enjoy your time in the cool at the Hempstead Fire Station (on 1887 just south of the Watermelon Festival event area).
When do I show up? It's very important that you arrive at least 5 minutes before your scheduled judging. We'll call or text to help you remember, so it's also important that we have your cell number.
Judging Schedule
Friday 8:00 PM Jackpot Margaritas
Saturday:
10:30 AM Jackpot Beans
12:00 PM Chicken
1:30 PM Pork Spare Ribs
3:00 PM Beef Brisket