The Tailgate Challenge is a pork rib and chicken cooking contest run and judged under the rules of the Kansas City Barbecue Society. The Tailgate Challenge offers local backyard cookers a taste of the competition barbecue experience.

This contest is limited to 40 entries. RETURNING FOR 2025: We will assign spots at the Tailgate Challenge this year.

Check-in is Friday at 8 a.m. No team is allowed to occupy a space without checking in first. All participants will have an 18 ft. by 18 ft. space. No vehicle parking in the tailgate lot.

No electricity is provided. Per Harford County Government Electrical Permitting and Licensing Department, only generators 5 Horse Power and under will be allowed.

Fees are non-refundable.