The 29th annual Lakeland Pigfest is happening at Sun ‘n Fun this Friday and Saturday, Jan. 23-24. 

More than 120 barbecue teams will compete in three divisions: pro, backyard and kids-q, earning titles in ribs, chicken, pork and brisket categories. This year, Pigfest is a qualifying event for the first ever BBQ World Cup, and winners will be invited to compete for $1 million in Las Vegas.

Admission to PigFest is $5. Kids 12 and under get in free. At the event, visitors can purchase “Pig Bucks” and spend them to sample competitors’ barbecue. The festival also features live music on Friday and Saturday. 

This year, Pigfest proceeds benefit Alliance for Independence, Bonnet Springs Park, Camp Fire Sunshine, Florida Children’s Museum, Girls Inc. and Learning Resource Center.

When:

Friday, Jan. 23: 5 to 10 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 24: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where:

Sun ‘n Fun Expo Campus
3875 W. Pipkin Road

Live music schedule:

Friday, Jan. 23
5:30 p.m.: Outlaw Saints
8:30 p.m.: Daniel Burns Band

Saturday, January 24, 2026
Noon: Madam Radar
3 p.m.: KatNip

Pigfest is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society, the world’s largest organization of barbecue and grilling enthusiasts.

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Anna Toms was born and raised in Kansas City, Mo., where she cultivated a love for writing and eventually earned her Ph.D. in literature and the humanities. She is an experienced educator who has taught students from middle school to college to think critically and express themselves clearly. Anna moved to Lakeland in June of 2020.

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