Boots, Brews and BBQ returns for its second year on March 13 and 14, 2026. Hosted by the U of A Department of Animal Science, the event will once again decide the Arkansas state barbecue champion at the Pauline Whitaker Animal Science Center.
The competition, officially sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society, draws pitmasters from across the country and internationally for a community-focused day of food, music and competition.
"What excites me about this event is that it's not just a competition, but it's a way for the community to be involved in supporting our students," Michael Looper, Ph.D., head of the Animal Science Department and event leader, said. "And this year is bigger and better than last!"
Boots, Brews and BBQ activities begin on Friday, March 13, featuring barbecue demonstrations, live music from U of A alum Trevor Diaz and Arlen and the Professors, People's Choice pulled pork competition and, new this year, the Boss Hawg competition. The Boss Hawg competition features five hand-selected teams preparing two ribeye steak plates: one judged by celebrity judges and one up for a live auction. Tickets are available to the public, with doors opening at 5 p.m.
Tickets purchased prior to the event are $40 and are $50 on the day. Each ticket includes unlimited samples from teams in the contest, traditional side dishes, four beverages and the opportunity to vote on the Tyson Foods People's Choice Award for pulled pork. For attendees 21 years old and over, the four beverages can be used at the bar station.
All proceeds from ticket sales go to the Department of Animal Science in Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences. The fundraiser supports the department's general scholarship fund and student competition teams in ranch horse, livestock judging, equine judging and meats quiz bowl. We are also very grateful to our sponsors Signature Bank, Arkansas Farm Bureau, Farm Bureau Health Plans, Superior Feeds and others.
"One of our goals with this event was to bring together our love for food and, more importantly, our love for the community. To invite them to be a part of student development at Dale Bumpers College.
It all comes back to our students. What better way to help students in animal science and Bumpers College than to help them by enjoying a barbecue competition and listening to great live music? It's a win-win for sure," Looper said.
On Saturday, March 14, The Boots, Brews and BBQ KCSB Competition starts with up to 50 teams expected to compete. The winner will be determined by KC Barbecue Society-sanctioned judges and announced that afternoon.
"It's music, it's food, it's camaraderie," Looper concluded. "We are looking forward to this year's event and hope to see you there."
For event tickets, visit https://bit.ly/3M30pmg. Reach out to Rudy Burns, rudyb@uark.edu, for more information.
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Contacts
Rudy Burns, fiscal manager
AES
rudyb@uark.edu