Join us for the annual Backyard Griller Competition, part of BBQ Fest at the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds in Chippewa Falls. 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' contestants and teams. A maximum of 20 teams will be accepted, with spots filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
The entry fee is $150 per team and is non-refundable. To register, complete the application form 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
The meat categories include Chicken, Ribs, and a meat option provided by the NWSFA for People's Choice. Each team may enter one item per category.
Prize breakdown:
Chicken and Ribs Categories
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First Place: $300
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Second Place: $200
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Third Place: $100
Overall Awards
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Grand Champion (combined scores from Chicken and Ribs): $400
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Reserve Champion: $200
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Best of Show: Trophy
People’s Choice Awards
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People’s Choice Winner: $400
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Runner-Up: $200
Total prize payout for the event is $2,400.
People’s Choice 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