64th Annual Arkansas Folk Festival

Do you have the taste buds and BBQ savvy to judge a smoked pork butt straight off the smoker? 

If you think you’ve got what it takes to crown the best of the best, we want YOU on the judging panel! Submit your application today to become an official judge at the 64th Annual Folk Festival and Smokin’ on the Square Competition.

Bring your appetite, your expertise, and get ready for some serious flavor!

Smokin’ on the Square – Contest Rules

Event Overview – Let’s Get Smokin’! ?

The Challenge:
Each team will fire up the smoker and cook 10 pounds of pork butt to perfection. Low and slow is the name of the game!

When the Smoke Rolls:
Cooking may begin any time after noon on Friday, April 17th — so get those coals hot and settle in for a night of BBQ bragging rights.

Time to Impress:
Entries will be judged on Saturday, April 18th at 3:00 PM by a panel of six judges ready to taste, test, and crown the best of the best.

Fan Favorite Fun:
In addition to wowing the judges, contestants must also provide samples for festival attendees — because great BBQ is meant to be shared!

Sharpen those knives, guard those secret rubs, and get ready for a smokin’ good time! 
 

Contestant Responsibilities

Entry & Setup – Bring Your BBQ A-Game! ?

Your Space, Your Style:
Each team is responsible for setting up their own cook station — including all equipment, supplies, seasonings, and secret ingredients. If you need it, bring it!

The Main Event:
You must bring a minimum of 10 pounds of pork butt — no substitutions allowed. This is a pork-only showdown!

Your Cooking Zone:
Each contestant will be assigned a 15’ x 15’ space to set up and get smokin’.
Please note: No trailers permitted.

Come prepared, come hungry for victory, and let’s fill the square with the smell of championship BBQ!

Fire It Up:
Cooking may begin any time after noon on Friday, April 17th — settle in, tend those coals, and let that pork cook low and slow.

Ready for the Spotlight:
Your pork butt must be fully smoked, rested, and ready for judging by 3:00 PM on Saturday, April 18th. When the judges arrive, it’s showtime!

Food Safety – BBQ the Right Way!

Keep It Safe:
Maintain proper storage and cooking temperatures at all times to ensure your entry is safe and delicious.

No Cross-Contamination:
Use separate utensils and prep areas for raw and cooked meat. Clean tools = clean cooking = championship-worthy BBQ!

Smoke smart, cook safe, and bring your best to the table! 

Presentation & Sampling – Show Off That Smoke! 

Bring the Wow Factor:
Present your pork in a way that showcases your BBQ talent. Whether it’s sliced, pulled, or plated with flair — make it look as good as it tastes!

Share the Flavor:
Be prepared to provide generous samples for both the judges and festival attendees. Great BBQ is meant to be enjoyed by all!

Judging Criteria – What It Takes to Win

• Taste & Flavor – Bold, balanced, and unforgettable.
• Smoke Quality – That perfect kiss of smoke makes all the  difference.
• Texture & Tenderness – Juicy, tender, and cooked to perfection.

Bring your best — because every bite counts!

Liability & Compliance – The Fine Print

• 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 following all local health and safety regulations.

Cook proud, cook safe, and get ready to compete for BBQ bragging rights!