Kids 6-12: our next generation of pitmasters
The Future of BBQ is Smokin' on the Rio's quick-cook event for youth, held Saturday afternoon in the Champions Arena. Teams of young cooks register, check in, cook, and turn in — all within roughly 60 minutes.
2027 schedule
- Check-in: 3:30 PM
- Cook start: 4:00 PM
- Turn-in: 4:20 PM – 4:30 PM
- Location: Champions Arena
- Awards: 6:00 PM at the Music Pavilion (with all other categories)
Why we do this
Smokin' on the Rio has always been about supporting youth in the Rio Grande Valley. The Future of BBQ program gives the next generation of pitmasters a low-pressure, high-energy way to experience competition cooking — and introduces them to the community that's been raising money for RGV youth since 2004.
Registration
Register for the Future of BBQ →
Questions?
Email us at smokinontherio@gmail.com and we'll get back to you with more details about age ranges, equipment, and what to bring.