The smokers are heating up once again as Famous Dave’s, the iconic 107-unit American barbecue franchise, brings back the All-Star BBQ Series for 2026. This traveling competition tour pits elite local pitmasters against one another in a live battle for ultimate barbecue bragging rights.
Now in its fourth year, the series continues its partnership with the World Food Championships. The collaboration delivers high-energy cooking competitions and a full-scale barbecue festival experience to communities nationwide. Best of all, admission to every event is free for the public to attend.
Competition Categories at the Famous Dave’s Series
The 2026 tour will visit eight cities, where skilled pitmasters will compete live in three specific categories: chicken, ribs, and a wild-card entrée. Throughout the competition day, participants will race against the clock to impress professional judges and claim victory in front of a crowd of hungry barbecue enthusiasts.
While the professional competition heats up at the pits, guests can immerse themselves in a lively festival atmosphere featuring a live DJ, interactive games, and various family-friendly activities.
Free Samples and Public Judging with Famous Dave’s
The real highlight of the series is the food. Starting at 11 a.m. local time, attendees can enjoy free barbecue samples fresh off the smoker, available while supplies last. At 2 p.m., the spotlight turns to the attendees as the public takes over the judging duties for the fan-favorite wing competition. Guests can sample wings prepared by the competing pitmasters and cast their votes to determine the winner of the People’s Choice Award.
Throughout each event, the brand will also be distributing swag, prizes, and other surprises to fans in attendance.
“There is nothing I love more than seeing the talent and heart that local pitmasters bring to the grill,” said Famous Dave’s founder Dave Anderson. “This series celebrates great American barbecue and the community that forms around a smoker. I’m excited to get back on the road, meet our fans and crown the next group of barbecue champions.”
Founder Dave Anderson is scheduled to appear at select tour stops to meet with guests and fans, with planned appearances in Rancho Cucamonga, Las Vegas, Modesto, and Colorado Springs.
2026 Famous Dave’s Event Schedule
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April 18: Indianapolis, IN | 3645 Vincennes Rd
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April 25: Rancho Cucamonga, CA | 11470 4th Street
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May 16: Union Gap, WA | 1504 E Washington Ave
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May 30: Las Vegas, NV | 4390 Blue Diamond Rd
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June 6: El Paso, TX | 12704 Montana Ave. #1/2
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June 13: Modesto, CA | 3401 Dale Rd. Building C
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June 20: Colorado Springs, CO | 5245 N Academy Blvd
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June 27: Hermitage, TN | 5000 Old Hickory Boulevard
The brand has 107 locations across 30 states and three countries. Known for award-winning smoked meats and flame-kissed ribs, the company continues to expand its presence as a leader in the barbecue industry.
For more information, visit FamousDaves.com/allstarbbqseries.