Hope you have a hankering for some BBQ! The American Royal World Series of Barbecue is back, and this year brings some big changes.
Here’s everything you need to know.
1. This year’s competition is the largest ever
The American Royal Association announced that the 2015 competition will feature 618 teams from 39 states and three countries - the largest number of teams to participate ever. That’s up 56 total teams from 2014, according to the American Royal Association.
2. New location
The competition this year will take place Thursday, Oct. 1 through Sunday, Oct. 4, at Arrowhead Stadium for the first time. It offers additional space for the growing number of participants as well as expanded peripheral barbecue activities, according to the American Royal Association.
3. How the competition works
Competition is held in four categories:
- Brisket
- Pork Ribs
- Pork (Shoulder or Boston Butt)
- Chicken
Contestants can enter all four to compete for the title of Grand Champion.
4. How to buy tickets
Several ticket options are available for purchase at Ticketmaster. Single-day tickets are available for $15, and weekend tickets are $25. Tickets for the VIP Pit presented by Tickets For Less are available at www.ticketsforless.com. The American Royal Association says VIP tickets include the best access to the live music stage and all-inclusive food and beverage.
5. So, what can I eat?
Unfortunately, the American Royal website says sampling from the competition is prohibited. Instead, a variety of food will be available at a food court. Barbecue options include Zarda Bar-B-Q and Plowboys BBQ.
RELATED: Find a barbecue sauce recipe and how-to from Ardie Davis!
6. What if I’m not a huge fan of barbecue?
The 90th Annual American Royal Parade will take place at the Truman Sports Complex on Saturday morning. The experience at the American Royal will also feature new amenities with the move to Arrowhead, including the Cowtown Family Fun Fest on Saturday and other festivities in the Budweiser Pavilion throughout the weekend, including a live music stage Friday and Saturday night featuring eclectic regional bands and featuring country music icons Big & Rich.
7. The parking situation
Parking at the stadium will be $20. There will be free parking Saturday, Oct. 3 from 9 a.m. to noon for the parade.
8. Winner, winner, BBQ dinner!
Last year’s Grand Champion was Smokin Hoggz BBQ out of Massachusetts. The Reserve Champion was Dirt Road BBQ. See the full list of results from 2014 here.
