Fort Worth has a big weekend ahead as the Cowtown Cookoff and Music Festival returns to Panther Island Pavilion in downtown.
The two-day event will bring barbecue teams, live music and plenty of family-friendly activities to the riverfront.
If you’re still figuring out your weekend plans, this one’s expected to draw a strong crowd and pack the air with that classic Texas barbecue aroma. It’s free to attend and open to anyone who wants to stop by.
Here’s what to know.
Who’s hosting the Cowtown Cook-Off?
The festival is organized by Fort Worth Cops for Kids, a community-based nonprofit that provides practical support for children throughout the city.
The organization offers scholarships, emergency family assistance and youth enrichment programs designed to give kids stability and connection.
A key part of their mission is strengthening the relationship between officers and young people through hands-on, positive experiences.
The group has served more than 10,000 kids since launching in 2003. Money raised at the cookoff will go directly toward continuing these services.
When is the Cowtown Cookoff happening?
The festival kicks off Friday at 11 a.m. and Saturday at 9 a.m. at Panther Island Pavilion, located at 395 Purcey St.
Admission is free, and you don’t need a ticket or preregistration to walk in. Only teams competing in the barbecue contest are required to register ahead of time. Visitors can buy food and drinks on site, but outside food and alcohol aren’t allowed.
For more information visit www.fortworthc4k.com/upcoming-events
What can I expect at the festival?
The weekend is set up as an open, family-friendly outdoor event where visitors can move between barbecue teams, vendor areas and the main stage.
Dozens of competitors will prepare chicken, ribs, brisket, and other Texas staples for judging, so expect a steady stream of smoke and seasoning drifting across the grounds.
You’ll also find spaces to sit, relax, grab a plate, and listen to music as performances begin later in the day.
The event is casual and come and go, so you don’t have to stay the end.
Who’s performing at the Cowtown Cookoff?
Music is scheduled both days and is included with free admission.
Friday’s performers include Wade Hatton, Calamity Janes, Brett Watts, Bronson Louis, and Antebellum, a tribute to Lady A, who will close out the night.
Saturday’s lineup features the Madelynn Griffith Trio, Kyle Redd, and Poo Live Crew as the final headliner.
Performances begin in the afternoon and run into the evening.
Can I sign up to judge the barbecue competition?
Yes, the festival is still accepting volunteer judges for Saturday’s competition and no experience is needed.
Judges must be at least 18 and check in during the designated windows.
• Chicken judging check-in runs 12:30 to 12:45 p.m., with turn in at 1 p.m.
• Rib judging check-in runs 1:30 to 1:45 p.m., with turn in at 2 p.m.
• Brisket judging check-in runs 2:30 to 2:45 p.m., with turn in at 3 p.m.
Teams interested in competing can also still register. The entry fee is $200, and the total prize purse is $15,000.
Organizers say they’re aiming for more than 100 teams and welcome both new and experienced pit masters.
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Tiffani is a service journalism reporter for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. She is part of a team of local journalists who answer reader questions about life in North Texas. Tiffani mainly writes about Texas laws and health news.