BBQ Bliss: Don’t Miss The 2025 Butts & Clucks Cook-Off on the Bay!

If you’re a fan of delicious food, gorgeous scenery and tons of fun, you don’t want to miss The Butts & Clucks Cook-Off on the Bay! This year’s event will be held Thursday, Friday and Saturday, January 24^th and 25^th in Apalachicola’s beautiful Battery Park.

Sanctioned by the Florida BBQ Association, this prestigious event is hosted by the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce and serves as the official 2025 Florida BBQ Association State Championship. With over $15,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs, top-notch barbecue teams from across the Southeast will converge to showcase their smoking and grilling prowess. The winners will also secure a coveted spot in the renowned Jack Daniels Championship.

Barbecue enthusiasts are in for a treat as teams compete in four delectable meat categories: Chicken, Ribs, Pork Butt, and Brisket. This cook-off promises an unforgettable feast of smoky, savory flavors and a vibrant atmosphere.

Here’s a sneak peek at the mouthwatering fun planned for this year’s event:

Judging Seminar

On Thursday, January 23rd, aspiring judges can participate in a Judging Seminar to become state-certified BBQ judges. That evening, the “Shut Up and Shuck” party will bring together competing teams and judges for a lively kickoff to the weekend.

BBQ Sauce Competition

On Friday, January 24th, the BBQ Sauce Competition will put entrants’ finger-licking creations to the test. Judging will take place in the evening, and the aroma of smoky, sweet, and tangy sauces will fill the air.

Mystery Box Open Competition

For those who love culinary surprises, the Mystery Box Open Competition on Friday, January 24th, is a must-see. Competitors will receive a sealed box at 2 pm and have two hours to whip up a dish using the mystery ingredients. Judging will be conducted by local chefs at 4 pm.

Live Entertainment

Get ready to groove on Saturday, January 25th, with live music performances in the heart of Battery Park from 3:30 pm to 5 pm. This energetic entertainment will add a rhythmic backdrop to the festivities.

Fabulous Food Vendors

Savor the flavors of Southern BBQ and more with a variety of food vendors serving up scrumptious bites throughout the weekend. Bring your appetite and prepare to indulge!

Magnificent Merch

Commemorate your experience with official Butts & Clucks merch! T-shirts, aprons, and more will be available for purchase at the event’s merchandise booth on Friday and Saturday.

People’s Choice: Swine Tasting

Get in on the action by becoming a judge in the People’s Choice contest. Purchase a VIP ticket to gain access to the People’s Choice tent on Saturday, January 25th, from 2:15 to 3:45 pm. Sample pulled pork from competing teams and vote for your favorite. Limited to 60 VIP passes, these tickets will be available on Friday and Saturday.

Deviled Egg Competition

The “Cluck that Came from the Butt Contest” invites everyone to join the fun with a delightful Deviled Egg Competition on Saturday, January 25th. For just a $5 entry fee, participants can showcase their egg-cellent creations. Turn in your entries by 4 pm at the Community Center in Battery Park. Visit www.ButtsandClucks.com for details.

Ready for a weekend packed with flavor, fun, and fiery competition? Don’t miss the 8th Annual Butts & Clucks Cook-Off on the Bay in Apalachicola, Florida. Mark your calendar and book your stay today!