ZEPHYRHILLS – Competitive barbecue is returning to the 16th annual Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival with the introduction of an FBA-sanctioned Backyard BBQ Competition on Feb. 28 in downtown Zephyrhills.
Previously a professional-level competition, organizers are relaunching the contest with a Backyard division as they reintroduce competitive cooking to the festival. The competition will be sanctioned by the Florida Barbecue Association, ensuring official rules, certified judging and a structured competitive experience.
The Backyard BBQ Competition is open to amateur and backyard pitmasters and will feature competition in pork, ribs and chicken. The People’s Choice, sponsored by Effie Mae’s Kitchen, will allow attendees to sample and vote for their favorite entries.
The 16th Annual Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival is a signature East Pasco County event, drawing thousands each year for award-winning barbecue, live blues music, and family-friendly entertainment.
2026 music performers will include LC Williams and The Driver, The Nightbumpers, Thunderbolt Brown and All Star Band featuring Chuck Riley, Ephraim Lowell, RJ Howson & Kid Royal
The event is sponsored in partnership with Florida’s Sports Coast, Suncoast Credit Union, AdventHealth, the City of Zephyrhills, Sonny’s BBQ, The Laker/Lutz News and Tampa Bay Times.
Proceeds benefit the Greater East Pasco Chamber of Commerce and its foundation, which supports scholarships for Pasco County students.
Team spots are limited and expected to fill quickly. More information and registration details are available at www.eastpascochamber.org/pigz-in-zhills-bbq-blues-festival/.
