Wisconsin has a growing BBQ scene, with several BBQ competitions and festivals held throughout the year that attract BBQ enthusiasts. These events provide an opportunity for competitors to showcase their skills and for attendees to enjoy a variety of BBQ styles and flavors.
Wisconsin’s BBQ competition season typically runs from late spring to early fall, with most events taking place from May through September. Some notable BBQ competitions and festivals in Wisconsin include the Great Wisconsin Rib Fest in West Allis, the Smoke in the Valley BBQ Competition in Ellsworth, and the Big Bull Falls BBQ Rib Fest in Wausau.
Wisconsin-style BBQ is influenced by the state’s unique regional flavors and ingredients, including the use of cheese in many BBQ dishes. Popular dishes include pulled pork, ribs, brisket, and smoked chicken, as well as Wisconsin-style BBQ dishes like smoked bratwurst and cheese curds.
Wisconsin’s BBQ sauces often feature a balance of sweet and tangy flavors, incorporating local ingredients like maple syrup and honey. The state’s BBQ culture is also influenced by its proximity to other Midwestern states and other BBQ hotspots, as well as by its own unique regional traditions.
| Apr. 28-30, 2023: Great Wisconsin SCA 6-Pack (DOUBLE), Manawa, WI. |
| Aug. 25-26, 2023: 11th Annual Death’s Door BBQ – Washington Island, WI |
