In 2025, Smokin' on the Rio added a High School Division so young pitmasters could compete independently against other schools — and against the national contenders. The High School competition has been such a success that for 2027, Smokin' on the Rio is expanding it into the Youth Division, now open to High School BBQ teams, FFA chapters, and 4-H chapters.

Youth teams compete against other youth teams for division awards and recognition (non-monetary), and also compete against all Smokin' on the Rio contestants for the top prizes — the advertised payouts are open to all teams, including youth teams. Same registration dates apply.

Who can enter

• Teams of 4–5 students enrolled in grades 9–12
• High School teams: led by a district employee or high school staff member (with an official school email address) who travels with the team under ISD rules
• FFA chapters: students must be current FFA members; supervised by a district employee or high school staff member
• 4-H chapters: students must be current 4-H members; supervised by the club advisor or a 4-H member parent
• No student may compete on more than one team, and Youth Division members may not also enter Future of BBQ

Where you'll cook

All Youth Division campsites are in the designated area east of the main entrance. Youth teams are not required to stay the night.

Important rules for Youth teams

• Coaches, mentors, parents, other adults, and non-team members may not touch meat, seasonings, marinades, cooking equipment, or pits.
• Alcohol is not permitted at any time, including in recipes or products. Any youth participant found consuming or possessing alcohol will be disqualified.
• Teams are responsible for knowing the turn-in times for each competition.
• Campsite cleanup is required before awards — trash bagged, no ashes or coals in the cans or left behind.
• Smokin' on the Rio is sanctioned by the Champions Barbecue Alliance (CBA). All CBA rules apply in addition to the Smokin' on the Rio Rules and the Youth Division rules. See the full 2027 Rules.

Save the date

February 12–13, 2027 · Smokin' on the Rio World Championship BBQ Cookoff, Mercedes, Texas

Register your Youth team →

Questions from coaches or advisors

Email us at [email protected]. We're happy to walk through logistics, travel, and what your team needs to bring.