Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que
Westwood·9.8
BBQ Festival Guide
American Royal World Series of Barbecue
Held each Novembernear Kansas Speedway, Kansas City, KS
About the festival
The American Royal World Series of Barbecue is one of the largest barbecue competitions in the world, a Kansas City institution that has helped define the city's standing as a barbecue capital. Hundreds of teams compete each fall near the Kansas Speedway.
Visit the official siteWhere to eat while you’re in Kansas City
Our highest-rated Kansas City barbecue — worth a detour whether or not you make the festival.
Good to Know
American Royal BBQ — Frequently Asked Questions
When is American Royal BBQ?
Held each November. Check the official site for this year's exact dates.
Where is American Royal BBQ held?
American Royal World Series of Barbecue is held at near Kansas Speedway, Kansas City, KS.
What barbecue should I eat while I'm in Kansas City?
Beyond the festival, Kansas City's top-ranked spots include Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Arthur Bryant's Barbeque, and Chef J BBQ — see our full Kansas City guide for the rest.