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Backyard BBQ Competition

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May 30, 2026 | Steele County Fairgrounds - Owatonna, MN

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 30th at the Steele County Fairgrounds. Participation is open to amateur 'Backyard Griller/Smoker' contestants and teams. A maximum of 24 Backyard Griller Teams will be accepted and 15 teams per category for the Youth & Kids Ques, with spots filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Backyard and Kids Que Competitor Limits

Backyard BBQ Competition Team Limit: 24 Teams

Youth Que Competition Participant Limit: 15 Teams

Kids Que Competition Participant Limit: 15 Teams

Backyard Griller Competition Categories and Prizes

KCBS Backyard Series Prizes Competition

Coming Soon!

Grand Champion (Total points from Chicken & Ribs): $350
Competition Reserve Champion (Total points from Chicken & Ribs): $250

People's Choice Award: (Most votes from public): $200

Chicken Ribs
1st Place + Award $150 $150
2nd Place + Award $100 $100
3rd Place + Award $75 $75
4th Place + Award $50 $50
5th Place + Award $25 $25

Youth/Kids Que Competition Categories and Prizes

Kids Que ( 10 and under) Youth Que (11-16 years old)
1st Place + Award $100 $100
2nd Place + Award $60 $60
3rd Place + Award $40 $40

Coming Soon!

More Details Coming Soon!

Grilled ribs and meat on a metal grill; charred exterior, close-up shot.

Backyard BBQ Competition Rules

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Runners in a race wearing hydration packs and hats, smiling. Outdoor setting.
Hands holding a sliced, cooked brisket with visible bark and pink smoke ring, on a butcher paper surface.
Outdoor flea market with shoppers browsing various items under tents.

Camping

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Backyard BBQ Competition Application

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Sponsor the BBQ Competitions

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