Fort Worth’s ultimate test of appetite and speed is back for a historic milestone. Riscky’s Barbeque—the legendary 99-year-old smokehouse staple—will host its landmark 20th annual Rib-Eating Competition at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 25, at its Stockyards Station location at 140 East Exchange Avenue.
The competition will challenge up to 30 barbeque enthusiasts to eat as many Riscky’s beef ribs as possible in just 60 seconds. The top qualifiers will then go head-to-head to win the top three prizes:
• 1st place — $500 Riscky’s gift card
• 2nd place — $250 Riscky’s gift card
• 3rd place — $100 Riscky’s gift card
To join the competitive feast, hungry contenders can sign up at the door on a first-come, first-served basis for a $5 entry fee (capped strictly at 30 contestants max). The showdown is open to barbecue lovers aged 18 and older, though minors are welcome to compete if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Win or lose, every competitor walks away with a complimentary, limited-edition Riscky’s t-shirt.
This legendary rib-eating showdown runs alongside a massive lineup of festivities hosted by the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District for the National Day of the American Cowboy. Recognized as the country’s “Best Cowboy Tribute Event” by American Cowboy magazine, this Western celebration has evolved into one of Fort Worth’s most beloved and enduring summer traditions.
Promising a full day of family-friendly activities from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., the National Day of the American Cowboy includes a Cowboy Celebration Parade, a Matinee Rodeo, Old West Comedy Gunfight Shows, a Fiddle Showcase, cow milking contests, cowboy poetry, armadillo races, face painting, live music, the Fort Worth Herd cattle drive, the Stockyards Championship Rodeo, and the John Wayne: An American Experience Grand Museum Expansion.
“Reaching our 20th annual rib-eating contest is an incredible milestone for the Riscky’s family,” said Eddie Sullivan, co-owner of Riscky’s BBQ. “For two decades, this challenge has brought our community together to celebrate great food, fierce competition, and the rich heritage of the Fort Worth Stockyards. As we approach nearly a century of serving Fort Worth, we are prouder than ever to fuel this legendary tradition and welcome back competitors and spectators for our biggest battle yet.”
