Greetings from the Alligator Capital of Texas!

 

We are thrilled to invite you once again to the Annual Texas Gatorfest Barbecue Cook-Off to kick off the 2025 Texas Gatorfest. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and unique celebration of the alligator and its habitat, our festival continues to grow and welcome families and visitors from all around. 

 

Event Overview for 2025

Dates & Venue:

The cook-off event will take place the weekend prior to Texas Gatorfest 2025, specifically from September 5-6, at Fort Anahuac Park.

 

Activities

The festivities kick off with the BBQ cook-off, 5K Gator Run, and our lively Kick-Off Street Dance featuring live entertainment on Friday. Saturday continues with more cook-off excitement, cornhole, and washer tournaments, concluding with another street dance.

  

Important Updates & Reminders for 2025:

Entries:

The first 30 teams with fully paid entries will be accepted.

 

Schedule:

• Contestant move-in is allowed from Thursday, September 4, 2025, at 12:00 pm.

• Mandatory Cooks Meeting on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 3:00 pm.

 

Participation Details:

• Kid’s Burger category remains open to 30 participants aged 5–17. Entries will now be judged on complete burgers.

• No oysters or gator meat will be sold at the event. Participants must arrange their own supplies.

• Pre-purchasing general admission tickets at the discounted rate of $5 is available with BBQ application submission.

 

Judging Details: 

• Chicken must be presented as a ½ fully jointed chicken, with 8-10 additional pieces for judging.

• Pellet grills/smokers are only allowed on Friday, not Saturday.

  

Awards and Judging:

• Trophies and payouts for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places in each division. Jackpots awarded to highest-placing team entries.

• Categories include Cocktail, Dessert, Oyster, Rice, Bloody Mary, Chicken, Rib, Gator, Brisket, and Kids Burger.

 

Participant Guidelines:

• Each team receives five Cook-Off Bracelets for the entry.

• Adhere to festival rules, including no glass containers or pets in the park.

• Compliance with safety and conduct regulations will be strictly enforced.

 

Logistics:

• Cook sites measure 40’ x 40’ with provision for one RV.

• Water and limited electricity points are available—bring extension cords and hoses for connections.

 

For additional details, contact the Anahuac Area Chamber of Commerce, visit our official website, or email Katelynn Smith. Entrants are advised to review all rules and complete their Vendor/Exhibitor Agreement accordingly.

 

We look forward to your participation and to another successful, fun-filled Texas Gatorfest in 2025!