Chamber News

KCBS at BalloonFest
Chamber News

KCBS at BalloonFest

Wednesday, September 10, 2025

Kansas City Barbeque Society at Poteau BalloonFest

The Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) is the world’s largest organization dedicated to promoting and celebrating barbeque. With over 16,000 members worldwide, KCBS is recognized as the leading authority on BBQ competitions, sanctioning hundreds of contests across the U.S. and internationally.

This year, the Oklahoma State BBQ Championship — sanctioned by KCBS — will be held right here at the 19th Annual Poteau BalloonFest.

About KCBS

KCBS exists to:

Celebrate barbeque as an American culinary tradition

Provide fair, consistent judging standards for competitions

Promote barbeque education and awareness worldwide

Build community through food, friendship, and competition

How KCBS Competitions Work

KCBS-sanctioned contests are judged in four traditional categories:

Chicken

Pork Ribs

Pork

Beef Brisket

Entries are evaluated by certified KCBS judges and scored on appearance, taste, and tenderness. Awards are given in each category, along with Reserve Champion and Grand Champion honors.

Why Compete at BalloonFest?

$10,000 in Cash Prizes will be awarded at the KCBS Oklahoma State Championship.

Gain recognition in a nationally respected, KCBS-sanctioned event.

Cook alongside some of the best pitmasters in the region.

Enjoy the unique setting of the longest-running hot air balloon festival in Oklahoma, where BBQ meets the magic of balloons, music, and family fun.

👉 Learn more about KCBS at kcbs.us and register today to be part of the Kansas City BBQ Society Oklahoma State Championship at Poteau BalloonFest!

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