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Ultimate BBQ Showdown!
We proudly present this year's Rib Cook-Off, brought to you by Nugget Casino Resort. Dive into a world where the finest BBQ teams battle it out for glory, a slice of nearly $20,000 in prize money, and the coveted title of BBQ Champion.
Location
Victorian Square, Sparks, Nevada on Victorian Avenue between 14th Street and Pyramid Way.
Where to stay
Stay in the heart of the action at the Nugget Casino Resort, located on Victorian Square.
Free Parking
Parking near the event is extremely limited and fills quickly. We recommend taking advantage of the free shuttle service!
What to eat
Check out the list of Rib Cookers and find your favorites.
Walk down the street and purchase from all the vendors. Ticket addition not required.
Pet Policy
Pets and non-service animals are not permitted on Victorian Square per local regulations.
Judges
As rib cookers from all over the world compete for top honors at the Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook Off, a carefully selected panel of judges will work behind-the-scenes to determine who makes the best ribs!
It’s not just bragging rights they’re competing for – $19,500 in cash is up for grabs for the cookers who impress the judges. As always, the judges are not permitted to sample any ribs from the cookers before the judging takes place. The judging is double-blind, meaning neither the judges, nor the staff setting up the judging know which ribs belong to which cooker.
The judges will eat the same ribs served to customers during the cook-off.
This year’s judges are a mix of top culinary professionals, food critics and media personalities who share a passion for delicious BBQ.
The Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-Off is the biggest barbecue festival in the country! The long-running and highly popular barbecue event has been featured in numerous national and international shows and publications, including TMZ, The Travel Channel, The Today Show and USA Today. Don’t take our word for it, check out the reviews and news coverage below.