Who: This is an open competition to everyone, maybe you're a backyard BBQ hero who everyone says they've got grill game or someone whose always wanted to try doing a BBQ competition but were a little too intimidated.  Maybe you're currently a BBQ competitor just looking for a warm up competition to prepare for the season, all are welcome!   

What:  A truly backyard (front yard to be technical) backyard BBQ competition with KCBS style Ribs rules and a best dish where anything goes as long as it was cooked on a smoker, grill, griddle, etc.  We're aiming for 5-10 teams but the more the merrier!

This is an unsanctioned event but will follow KCBS rules, and plan to have some certified judges doing double blind judging.  You are responsible for providing all your own equipment, pop up tents and supplies. Limited power will be available.  We will be having the competition rain or shine! 

There will be mini wrestling championship belts for the #1 Ribs, #1 Best Dish and Grand Champion (Overall Winner).  Any remaining entry fees will be split up among the winners.  The more teams that sign up, the more cash prizes we can give out!

When: Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 

• 7:00 AM – Team Setup /Meat Inspection starts (you can start cooking once you have you have your meats inspected)

• 9:00 AM – Team Meeting

• 2:00 PM – Best Dish Turn In

• 2:30 PM – Ribs Turn In

• 3:30 PM – Awards (approximated)

Where: Sugar Grove, IL (This is planned at a private residence, address to be provided to contestants once signed up)

How Much: $75 per team (this includes entries in Ribs and the Best Dish category).  If you're feeling extra saucy and want to put in a 2nd entry for Best Dish it's an extra $25.  Final points for the Grand Champion will be based on how well your top entry for Best Dish places and your Rib entry.  All entry fees collected will go back into the contest between trophies and cash prizes.  

There will be T-shirts available to order on the sign up sheet.  Sign up for the competition here

See FAQs below as we will keep adding as we get closer to the event

Q: Do I need to be a member of Grillers Anonymous to participte? 

A: No, this is open to everyone! You don't need to be a member of grillers anoynmous to participate.

Q: What is Grillers Anonymous?

A: We are a co-ed group of grilling and BBQ enthusiasts that meet monthly to share our love all things grilling!  Check out the rest of our site for more details.

Q: Can I bring my spouse, kids? 

A: Yes this is a family friendly event however this will be hosted at a private home and there will be limited things to do so unless your kids are REALLY into BBQ they are going to be bored.  Another option is maybe they can swing by at the awards section to watch all the glory when you destroy the competition and walk away with one of the champions belts! 

Q: Will alcohol be allowed?

A: Yes.  You may bring your own alcohol to consume but you are expected to consume responsibly and it is the event coordinators discretion to ask someone to leave if they are not doing so.  

Q:  Are you accepting judges?   

A: Yes, we're looking for about 6 judges.  If you are interested, then use the sign up sheet and just respond in comments that you want to be a judge and not compete.  Bonus points if you are a certified KCBS judge! Who doesn't like free BBQ?