63rd Annual Arkansas Folk Festival

Smokin’ on the Square – Contest Rules

Folk Fest BBQ Cookoff

Event Overview

Dish: Each contestant will smoke 10 pounds of pork butt
Start of Cooking: Friday, April 18th, any time after noon
Judging: Saturday, April 19th at 3pm by a panel of 6 judges
Additional Requirement: Contestants must also provide samples for festival attendees

Contestant Responsibilities

Entry & Setup:
Each contestant is responsible for their own station, equipment, and ingredients.
Bring at minimum 10 pounds of pork butt—no substitutions.

You will be provided a space that is 15' x 15'.  No Trailers are permitted.

Cooking Guidelines:
Begin cooking any time after noon on Friday, April 18th.
Ensure your pork butt is fully smoked and ready for judging by Saturday, April 19th at 3pm.

Food Safety:
Maintain safe storage and cooking temperatures at all times.
Prevent cross-contamination by using separate utensils for raw and cooked meat.

Presentation & Sampling:
Present your dish in a way that highlights your BBQ skills.
Offer ample samples for both the judges and festival attendees.

Judging Criteria

Taste & Flavor
Smoke Quality

Texture and tenderness

Liability & Compliance

All participants must sign a waiver releasing the Mountain View Area Chamber of Commerce from liability related to food safety or other incidents.
Contestants are responsible for complying with all local health and safety regulations.