Pitmaster row
We want all the smoke.
Bring the fire, the patience, and the craft that turns a cook into a story people remember.
Respect the craft
Built for cooks who take smoke seriously.
Pitmaster Row is the heartbeat of Pine Tree Smoke & Soul Fest—a place for seasoned teams and rising talent to show what low heat, good wood, and disciplined technique can do.
Official categories, entry requirements, turn-in times, judging standards, equipment rules, prizes, and site logistics will be published in the pitmaster packet.
Pitmaster applications are now open
Championship categories are Brisket, Pork Ribs, and Chicken. Optional contests and final operational details are listed in the Official BBQ Competition Rules and team packet.
Come ready
The pitmaster packet will cover every detail.
Rules & categories
Official competition structure, allowed equipment, and judging expectations.
Site operations
Arrival, team footprint, fire safety, utilities, sanitation, and teardown.
Turn-ins & awards
Final timing, presentation guidance, scoring, and recognition information.
Civic pride on the pit
Battle of the Badges
Explore the proposed founding-year Longview Fire versus Longview Police challenge—four meats, two community causes, and one traveling Smoke Trophy.
Founding-year competition fees
One team. Three championship meats. One entry.
Brisket, pork ribs, and chicken are bundled into one registration—teams do not pay separately for each championship meat.
| Participation | Inclusion | Founding rate | Regular rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Championship team | Team space, Brisket, Pork Ribs & Chicken | $250 | $325 |
| Optional specialty category | Beans, Dessert, or Anything But BBQ | $25 each | $25 each |
| People's Choice | Approved public tasting participation | No additional fee | No additional fee |
| Oversized footprint | When approved and available | $50 | $50 |
Optional site connections
- Electricity connection — $35
- Water connection — $20
- Premium corner/end space — $25
Payment & refunds
No application fee. Approved teams must pay within five business days; space is not reserved until payment is received. The limited $250 Founding Team rate is available while founding spaces remain.
Organizer cancellation: 100% refund. Withdrawal more than 30 days before the festival: 50% refund. Within 30 days, no-shows, rule violations, or missing permits: no refund. The festival operates rain or shine unless officially canceled.
Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion eligibility requires a qualifying turn-in for all three championship meats. Credit-card processing fees may be added at checkout. Teams are responsible for applicable permits, licenses, insurance, equipment, fire-safety requirements, and operating supplies.
Fire it up
Your smoke belongs in Longview.
Tell us about your team, barbecue experience, cooker, and festival site needs.