This family-friendly festival brings the community together for a delicious day of mouthwatering food, live music, and cold drinks—all in support of a great cause. Local businesses, restaurants, and congregations will fire up their grills and stir their pots as they compete for bragging rights and the coveted titles of Best Beans and Best BBQ in town.
Festival guests can sample entries from competing teams showcasing two of Mississippi’s favorite dishes: bold, smoky barbecue and rich, savory red beans. But that’s not all—awards will also be handed out for Best Dessert, Best Presentation, Best Cook Team Tent, and the ever-popular People’s Choice Award.
Come out and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon with your neighbors while supporting Stewpot Community Services, a Mississippi homegrown charity dedicated to serving those in need.
Get ready for a flavorful showdown at the 2025 BankPlus Red Beans & BBQ Fest!
CALLING ALL PITMASTERS AND CHEFS....
Got a winning recipe and a love for community? Join the fun at Stewpot’s Red Beans & BBQ Festival! Whether you're a backyard pitmaster, a restaurant pro, or just love to cook with friends, we want you on the lineup. Every year, we welcome teams from friend groups, social clubs, congregations, businesses, restaurants, and nonprofits to bring the heat in this friendly, flavor-packed competition. Ready to show off your skills for a great cause? Visit our Cook Team Info page or shoot us an email to get started!
NOMINATE A JUDGE
We welcome members of our community to nominate someone to be a Judge at Red Beans & BBQ. Judges are chosen based on their involvement in the community, appreciation for good food and drink, and a love for Stewpot. Judges receive free admission to the event and vote on participating restaurants/businesses in the following categories: Best Barbecue, Best Beans, Best Side, and Best Dessert. Submissions will be closed on Monday, October 6, 2025.
2024 SPONSORS
Arts & Crafts Vendors
One of a Kind Cards
Sherelda’s Furbaby Treasures
Heart Expressions, LLC
