Kansas City spans both Missouri and Kansas, making it a two-state city. Missourians often claim that the world’s largest BBQ festival is in Kansas City, Missouri. However, the festival is actually held at the Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kansas, just 15 minutes from the Missouri border. Missourians' claim is further supported by the fact that the American Royal Association, the non-profit organization that hosts the World Series of BBQ, is headquartered in Missouri. Locals and travelers pass seamlessly between the two states, so let's call it a truce and say the 600-team festival is in the Kansas City Metropolitan Area. Fair enough?
What’s not to love about the biggest BBQ festival on the planet!? There are competitions, BBQ demos, live music, local food and BBQ for purchase, adult beverage gardens, entertainment, and kids' activities. The event is in the fall and dates change annually, so check the site for tickets and the event schedule.
Gather with fellow meat lovers at the Kansas City Speedway.
Grillin’ has a long history in the region.
The Kansas City Stockyards were the world’s premier exchange hub for hogs, cattle, and sheep until its closure in the 1990s. This bustling livestock market drew leading figures from the horse and cattle industries, who brought considerable economic impact and prestige to the region. Hence, the creation of American Royal in 1899, a not-for-profit organization with a mission to be a leader in the nation for agriculture events, education, and engagement.
These days, American Royal’s events throughout the year continue to educate about the role of agriculture in the 21st century. You must put the World Series of Barbecue at the top of your list because they must be doing something right with tens of thousands of people in attendance!
American Royal is responsible for crowing the Barbecue Hall of Fame® inductees yearly at the festival, so you know you’re in for some good food during your visit!
Check out the BBQ Marketplace to try some of the barbecue Kansas City is known for. Sweet, smoky, and thick sauces usually accompany a variety of meats.
You’ll find traditional and modern takes on cue.
Join competitors from around the world at the three-day festival, American Royal World Series of Barbecue! You may need to schedule a walk at a nearby park to burn off all that meat! Maybe you’ll need a break from BBQ during your trip. Here are some of our other favorite Missouri dining recommendations. Oh, and if you are coming in from out of town, check out my favorite site for deeply discounted flights.
If you plan on attending the world’s largest BBQ festival in Kansas City, Missouri, let us know in the comments!
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