This exciting event invites amateur grillers and BBQ enthusiasts to showcase their talents, serve the public, and compete for cash prizes, awards, and the coveted People’s Choice title.
The Backyard BBQ Competition will take place on Saturday, May 16, at the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds. Participation is open to amateur 'Backyard Griller' contestants and teams. A maximum of 18 Backyard Griller Teams will be accepted, with spots filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Non-refundable Entry Fee: $150.00 per Team. If a team cancels by April 15, 2026, and a replacement is secured, a refund will be issued.
To register, complete the application form (linked above) and mail it to: NWSFA, 225 Edward Street, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729. Do not send the registration payment with the application until after confirmation is received.
Backyard Griller Competition Categories and Prizes
KCBS Backyard Series Prizes
Competition
Grand Champion (Total points from Chicken & Ribs): $525.00
Competition Reserve Champion (Total points from Chicken & Ribs): $425.00
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Chicken
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Ribs
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| 1st Place + Ribbon
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$150.00
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$150.00
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| 2nd Place + Ribbon
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$125.00
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$125.00
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| 3rd Place + Ribbon
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$100.00
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$100.00
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| 4th Place + Ribbon
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$75.00
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$75.00
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| 5th Place + Ribbon
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$50.00
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$50.00
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Total KCBS Backyard Series Competition Payout $1,950.00
People’s Choice Awards:
Backyard cookers will be provided with two (2) approximately 9lb. regular pork loins, courtesy of Mike’s Star Market. Attendees must vote for a minimum of 9 (or 50%) of the 18 Backyard cooks. People’s Choice Awards are separate
from the Backyard Series Competition.
People’s Choice Grand Champion $275.00
People’s Choice Reserve Champion $175.00
People’s Choice Competition Payout: $450.00
Total (combined) payout between KCBS Backyard + People's Choice: $2,400.00
People’s Choice Award Participation
Each team will receive an ample amount of meat at the cook’s meeting to prepare for public sampling. Day-of BBQ Fest attendees will have the opportunity to purchase a sampling and a voting tool to select the 2026 People's Choice recognition.
General Rules and Requirements
All meat must be cooked on-site on the day of the contest. Teams must maintain safe food temperatures, and all meats must be under 42°F at the time of inspection. Cooking can be done on any type of grill or smoker, but food trucks are not allowed.
Teams will be assigned a 20’ x 20’ space upon arrival. No reserved spots are available, so teams should arrive together for placement. Setup and required meeting times will be communicated upon Backyard Griller registration confirmation. Power is available if requested, but teams must bring their own extension cords. Water will be accessible nearby, and ice will be available for purchase. Teams should bring their own tents and tables (6-foot tables can be rented for $8 each). Trash and ash disposal areas will be provided.
Camping is available through the Northern Wisconsin State Fair website at:
https://www.nwsfa.com/p/arrange-your-visit/fair-hill-campground-alternate
Liability Waiver
Participants acknowledge that BBQ competitions may involve certain risks. By entering the competition, all participants agree to release and hold harmless the Northern Wisconsin State Fair Association and its affiliates from any claims, liabilities, or costs that may arise from participation, including any resulting from negligence. A signed waiver is required with each entry.
Backyard Griller Competition Contact Information
For questions or additional information, please contact:
Brian Maki, NWSFA Executive Director
715.723.2861 | bmaki@nwsfa.com