Celebrating the sport of outdoor cookoffs with community, camaraderie, and sanctioned competitions throughout Alabama and surrounding states
LATEST NEWS
LATEST NEWS
Upcoming Events list
updated monthly.
Last update: 9/1/25
Recognized Sanctioning Bodies
Our Purpose
Community
Fostering Connections
We promote opportunities for new enthusiasts and experienced cooks and pitmasters to socialize while inspiring them to explore the delicious world of outdoor cooking. Our mission promotes creativity, tradition, and lasting friendships.
Personal Growth
Continuous Improvement
The ABA aims to elevate outdoor cooking culture across the Deep South through sanctioned contests and events showcasing the best cooks. There is something for all skill levels and backgrounds - even those who just want to eat!
Tourism
Accentuating Host Cities and States
By promoting outdoor cooking contests through the ABA Cook Trail, we also strive to boost tourism. Our activities attract visitors, inviting them to taste and celebrate the Deep South's rich culinary heritage.
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Foster connections with outdoor cooking enthusiasts across Alabama and surrounding states!
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Celebrate your success by earning Cook Trail Points on your way to compete for a Team of the Year title!
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Receive an ABA certificate and sticker!
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Dues as low as only $40 - valid until the end of the current calendar year!
Why become a member of ABA?
Why become a member of ABA?
Our 501(c)(3) Commitment
As part of its mission to enhance the outdoor cooking culture in Alabama and beyond, the ABA actively supports and promotes 501(c)(3) organizations who host cooking competitions. This commitment is reflected in several key areas:
Collaboration and Support
- Partnerships: The ABA collaborates with various 501(c)(3) organizations that host cooking competitions, providing resources and expertise to help ensure successful events.
- Promotion: The association promotes these competitions through its channels, including social media, newsletters, and events, helping to raise awareness and attract participants.
Community Engagement
- Encouraging Participation: By promoting competitions, the ABA encourages its members and the broader community to participate, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and friendly competition among outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Networking Opportunities: Supporting contests creates networking opportunities for pitmasters, sponsors, and fans, strengthening the outdoor cooking community as a whole.
Educational Initiatives
- Workshops and Demonstrations: The ABA may offer workshops or demonstrations at these events, sharing knowledge and techniques that benefit both competitors and attendees.
- Resource Sharing: The association provides guidance on best practices for organizing and running successful competitions, helping to elevate the quality of events across the region.
By promoting 501(c)(3) organizations' cooking competitions, the Alabama Barbecue Association not only enhances its own mission but also contributes to the growth and sustainability of the outdoor cooking culture, ensuring that it thrives for future generations.
