2026 Pork In The Park

SBN Pork in the Park – Newberry, SC | April 18, 2026

Smoke, Flavor, and Southern Tradition Take Over Newberry.

The Southern BBQ Network (SBN) proudly brought the heat to Newberry, South Carolina, on April 18, 2026, for another unforgettable Pork in the Park competition—where championship barbecue, community spirit, and Southern hospitality came together for an incredible day of food, fire, and fellowship.

From the early morning smoker prep to final awards announcements, teams from across the Southeast showcased their skills, passion, and dedication to the craft of barbecue. The aroma of slow-smoked pork filled the air as pitmasters competed for top honors, while families, friends, and BBQ fans gathered to enjoy one of South Carolina’s favorite spring traditions.

Competition Highlights

This year’s event featured fierce competition across multiple categories, with teams delivering exceptional presentations in appearance, tenderness, and taste. Judges carefully evaluated every entry using SBN’s trusted scoring standards, ensuring fairness and consistency throughout the event.

Overall Champions
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Grand Champion: Monkey Bottom Boys BBQ
Reserve Grand Champion: Smoke Till You're Broke

Category Winners

Pork
1st Place: Monkey Bottom Boys BBQ
2nd Place: Boar's Nest
3rd Place: What A Pit BBQ

Ribs
1st Place: Smoke Till You're Broke
2nd Place: Monkey Bottom Boys BBQ
3rd Place: Big Wally's BBQ

Chicken
1st Place: Big Wally's BBQ
2nd Place: Ultimate Tailgaters BBQ
3rd Place: Butt Burner's BBQ


More Than a Competition

Pork in the Park continues to be more than just a cook-off—it is a celebration of community. Local vendors, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and strong local support made this event a true destination for both competitors and spectators.

SBN remains committed to growing the BBQ community throughout the Carolinas and the Southeast by supporting events like this that bring people together and preserve the traditions of competitive barbecue.

Thank You to Our Teams, Judges, and Sponsors

​A special thank you goes out to every cook team, judge, table captain, volunteer, organizer, sponsor, and community supporter who made this event possible. Your dedication is what keeps SBN strong and growing.

Congratulations to all of our winners and participants—we look forward to seeing everyone at the next stop on the SBN trail.

​Stay Connected

Follow the Southern BBQ Network for upcoming events, judge certifications, team opportunities, and all things competition BBQ across the Southeast.

Because great barbecue isn’t just cooked— it’s earned.
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