Great Lenexa BBQ Battle
June 26 @ 4:30 pm - June 27 @ 11:00 pm
Kansas State Championship since 1984
Each year, hundreds of pitmasters fire up their smokers for one of the region’s most beloved traditions. What started in 1982 with just 12 teams has grown into a full-scale competition featuring 150–200 teams, all chasing the title of Grand Champion.
Friday Night: Party & Public Fun
June 26 | $5 admission
Friday is the best time to experience the BBQ Battle. While teams host private parties, the public is invited to enjoy a lively, festival-style atmosphere with:
- Live music
- Food vendors and beverages for purchase
- Kids activities
Note: Competition teams host private parties and do not offer public samples.
Saturday: Competition
June 27 | Teams only
Saturday is focused on the competition itself. Teams are hard at work preparing entries for judging, which begins at 11:30 a.m., with winners announced around 4:30 p.m.
Visitors are welcome to walk the park and purchase concessions.
Know before you go:
- Sar-Ko-Par Aquatic Center is closed until 4 p.m.
- No Splash With Me
- No public BBQ sampling from competition teams