Montana Pitmaster Classic Returns to Bozeman
Smoke, flavor and competition return to Bozeman when the Montana Pitmaster Classic takes over Kenyon Noble Lumber & Hardware on Friday, August 28, and Saturday, August 29.
The two-day event is Montana’s official state barbecue championship and a Kansas City Barbeque Society-sanctioned Master Series competition. More than 40 professional and amateur teams from across the United States and Canada will compete in chicken, pork ribs, pork shoulder and brisket, with more than $13,000 in prize money on the line.
Friday’s Que for a Cause runs from 5 to 8 p.m. Admission is free, and guests can exchange cash for BBQ Chips to sample specialty meats, desserts and other creations from participating teams. A portion of proceeds benefits the Gallatin Valley YMCA. The First Responder Rib Eating Contest begins at 6:30 p.m., featuring Central Valley Fire Department against the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office. Look for KSKY’s Dave Wooten broadcasting from the event on that Friday.
Saturday’s BBQ Pro Day runs from noon to 4 p.m. Guests can buy competition barbecue, attend free 20-minute classes, watch live demonstrations and learn from representatives of Traeger, Weber, Ooni and Recteq. Awards begin at 4 p.m., when the Montana Pitmaster Classic Grand Champion will be crowned.
Event Highlights
- When: Friday, August 28, from 5–8 p.m.; Saturday, August 29, from noon–4 p.m.
- Where: Kenyon Noble Lumber & Hardware, 1243 West Oak Street in Bozeman.
- Admission: Free, with no tickets required.
- Friday: Que for a Cause featuring food from more than 20 competing teams.
- BBQ Chips: Exchange cash for chips Friday; advance bags are available at Kenyon Noble locations and the Gallatin Valley YMCA.
- Rib-eating contest: Central Valley Fire versus the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office at 6:30 p.m. Friday.
- Saturday: Competition barbecue for sale—bring cash because competitors will not accept cards.
- Free classes: Twenty-minute barbecue and shop classes beginning at noon Saturday.
- Competition: More than 40 teams competing for over $13,000 and a potential invitation to the Kansas City Royal.
- Beneficiary: A portion of proceeds supports the Gallatin Valley YMCA.
- Reminder: Pets, alcohol and cigarettes are not permitted inside the event area. Parking may be limited, so carpooling or ridesharing is encouraged.





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