The Largest Barbecue Competition in The World

The main attraction for carnivores and barbecue lovers, the World Series of Barbecue is just that: the end-all be-all competition that decides the best ‘cue smokers on the planet. With more than 600 teams competing and tens of thousands of people in attendance, this three-day event at Kansas Speedway is no question the highlight of the year for many barbecue enthusiasts.

The American Royal World Series of Barbecue is open to the public:

  • Friday, November 7:  3:00pm – 11:00pm
  • Saturday, November 8: 11:00am – 6:00pm

Purchase your tickets early, as tickets will be higher at the gate.

  • Single Entry Adult Tickets | Friday | $25.00 plus fees
    • Good for one entry on Friday, November 7. Gates open at 3:00pm
  • Single Entry Adult Tickets | Saturday | $15.00 plus fees
    • New lower price for Saturday entry! These tickets will not be valid for Friday night.
  • Single Entry Child Ticket | $7.00 plus fees
    • Child Ticket for ages 6-11. Tickets are good for one entry on either Friday or Saturday.
  • Family 4-Pack | $40.00 plus fees
    • Bring the family out on Saturday and save money! The Family 4-Pack includes 2 adult tickets and 2 child tickets for Saturday, November 8.
  • Weekend Wristband | $40.00 plus fees
    • Good for unlimited entry during the entire event – Nov 5-9

 

Special Events

  • Royal Tours – Friday | $45.00 plus fees
    • Learn firsthand about the art and strategy of championship BBQ as teams share insights into their setup, techniques, and what it takes to compete at the highest level. This is a walking tour – no vehicle support will be provided. Don’t miss this unique chance to go behind the scenes to see the world’s most prestigious barbecue competition!
    • Entry into the event and Royal tour access included
  • Royal Tours – Saturday | $45.00 plus fees
    • Learn firsthand about the art and strategy of championship BBQ as teams share insights into their setup, techniques, and what it takes to compete at the highest level. This is a walking tour – no vehicle support will be provided. Don’t miss this unique chance to go behind the scenes to see the world’s most prestigious barbecue competition!
  • Party of the Year Judge – Friday | $90.00 plus fees
    • Be a Judge at the Best KC Party of the Year! As a judge, you’ll spend approximately 30 minutes at 3 different team spaces, scoring them based on hospitality, ambiance and creativity, and overall experience
  • NEW FOR 2025 – BBQ Garden – Saturday | $50.00 plus fees
    • The BBQ Garden gives you an opportunity to experience the BBQ in a whole new way – Eat, Drink & Enjoy! This special ticket includes event entry on Saturday, November 8, plus food samples, beverages, games and fun! Try competition-level BBQ & sides from some top KC pitmasters.