Fri, Oct 16
|Kingsland
MeatFest
Do you have what it takes to be crowned one of the best pitmasters in Texas?
Time & Location
Oct 16, 2026, 7:00 PM – Oct 18, 2026, 3:00 PM
Kingsland, 1010 King Ct, Kingsland, TX 78639, USA
About the event
Hooper's MeatFest is more than a cook-off, it's a celebration of Texas barbecue and Hill Country hospitality.
Join us for three days of smoke, sizzle, and community at Hooper’s MeatFest on the Hooper’s lawn, October 16–18. MC’ed by Churchrow Tejas BBQ pitmaster, Miguel Vidal, this competitive backyard BBQ festival will bring together up to 50 teams vying for top honors and cash/prize awards. We are also honored to have special guests Arnie Segovia (ArnieTex), BBQ Creator, live fire expert and Texas barbecue personality, and Al Wasserberger, host and executive producer for Behind the Food TV.
The festival takes place in the heart of the Texas Hill Country on The Lawn at Hooper’s, the original movie set from The Texas Chain Saw Massacre. We are a welcoming, family-friendly spot with plenty of room for competitor rigs and large outdoor gatherings. Hosting a BBQ festival at a former slaughterhouse set? That just feels… thematically appropriate.
Expect mouthwatering competition, live music, local craft beer and spirits, food vendors, family activities, and a festive atmosphere celebrating Texas barbecue culture.
Educational classes during the three-day event include:
- Brisket Trimming Course with the Churchrow crew — hands-on demonstrations and prepping techniques for competition-ready brisket.
- Smoking Brisket with Miguel Vidal — step-by-step smoking methods, temperature control, wood selection, and finishing tips.
- Tortilla Making Class — traditional hand-press and hand-rolled techniques for fresh tortillas from Esther Madera.
- Salsa Making Class — fresh salsa recipes and prep techniques, from roasting chilies to seasoning and pairing.
If you’re a BBQ aficionado, a team member, or a weekend foodie, Hooper’s MeatFest will deliver great time, fierce competition, and full bellies. More details judging categories, class times, and the event schedule to follow.
Interested in participating?
1st Place - $5000 Grand Prize
2nd Place - $1500 Prize
Fill out this Registration Form