This Is

The Best In The West Rib Cook Off

Often referred to as the Super Bowl of rib competitions on the national BBQ competition circuit, the annual Labor Day Weekend event spans more than 6 city blocks in the heart of downtown Sparks, Nevada.  Two dozen of the country’s best BBQ teams competed for nearly $20,000 in prize money plus prestigious bragging rights!  It is estimated that 350,000-400,000 BBQ enthusiasts take part of the festivities each year consuming more than 250,000 pounds of mouthwatering ribs during the 6-day festival.

In addition to the best BBQ around, a wide variety of activities are offered including a huge arts and crafts vendor show, kids area, VIP area and top named entertainment performing on two stages. There is no admission fee and the event is open to the public.

Dates & Opening Hours
Dates & Opening Hours

Wednesday, August 28, 2024 - Monday, September 2, 2024

Wednesday - Sunday  

  10:30am - 9:00 pm 

Monday

  10:30pm - 5:00 pm

Vicorian Square, Sparks, Nevada on Victorian Avenue between 14th Street and Pyramid Way 
1100 Nugget Avenue, Sparks, Nevada 89431,
USA

Concert Line Up

Main Stage

7pm-9pm

Main Stage

Ying Yang Twins

7pm-9pm

Main Stage

Thompson Square

7pm-9pm

Main Stage

Uncle Cracker

7pm-9pm

Main Stage

Foghat

7pm-9pm

Main Stage

Eddie Montgomery

2:30pm-4:30pm

Main Stage

Legendary Wailers

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Rib Cookers

2023 1st Place: Porky Chicks BBQ

2023 1st Place: Porky Chicks BBQ

The world’s top rib cookers compete for top honors each year at the Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook Off.

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2023 1st Place: Porky Chicks BBQ

2023 2nd Place: Rasta Joe's BBQ

2023 2nd Place: Rasta Joe's BBQ

The competition is widely regarded as the most prestigious rib cook-off in the country.

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2023 2nd Place: Rasta Joe's BBQ

2023 3rd Place: BJ's Barbecue

2023 3rd Place: BJ's Barbecue

The rib cookers aren’t just competing for bragging rights – $19,000 in Cash Is Up For Grabs For Those Who Impress The

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2023 3rd Place: BJ's Barbecue

2023 4th Place: Git-R-Smoked

2023 4th Place: Git-R-Smoked

Winners are announced on Monday, September 2 at 2pm Plaza Stage

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2023 4th Place: Git-R-Smoked

A Special Thanks

To Our Sponsors

What People Say

Testimonials

Connie C. from Sacramento, CA

“RIBS.  Wish it was all day, everyday!” 

 

Amanda M. from Reno, NV

“There’s a reason everyone loves this event and looks forward to it every year: mounds of delicious ribs.  You can get nearly every version of this mouthwatering treat each summer at the rib cook-off held in downtown Sparks.” 

Janelle S. from Gilroy, CA

“I’ve been a fan of this rib cook-off for years and is one of my favorite festivals for the long Labor Day weekend.”

Jessica G. from Reno, NV

“This was a great experience that I’ll never forget!” 

Jason G. from Ventura, CA

“This event is preceding and culminating over Labor weekend and is one of the best barbecue gatherings on the West Coast.  There are around thirty different competitors and barbecue restaurants, which means a great opportunity to sample or eat at so many different restaurants all in one place.”