In Fort Worth, the smell of smoked meat hangs thick in the July air, a familiar perfume that drifts from the Stockyards and settles over the city like a promise. Come the last Saturday of the month, that aroma will draw the bold and the hungry to East Exchange Avenue, where tradition, competition, and a whole lot of beef ribs collide at one of the city’s most beloved eating contests.
On July 26, Riscky’s Barbeque — the 98-year-old local institution that’s practically synonymous with Fort Worth BBQ — will host its 19th Annual Rib-Eating Competition at its Stockyards Station location. Part of the National Day of the American Cowboy celebration, the spectacle kicks off at 11 a.m., pitting up to 30 contestants against the clock and a tray of Riscky’s signature beef ribs. The challenge? Devour as many ribs as you can in 60 seconds. The top eaters advance for a chance at glory — and a gift card.
First place takes home a $500 Riscky’s gift card, while second and third place finishers get $250 and $100, respectively. Entry costs $5 at the door, and participation is limited to the first 30 brave souls (ages 18 and up, or minors with a guardian). Every contestant walks away with a Riscky’s t-shirt and, likely, a strong craving for water and a nap.
“We’re proud to continue Fort Worth’s most legendary food challenge,” said Eddie Sullivan, co-owner of Riscky’s BBQ. “This event is a celebration of tradition, community, and, of course, our love for great barbeque. It’s an honor to be part of such a cherished Fort Worth tradition, and we’re excited to welcome participants and spectators alike to join in the fun and festivities.”
The rib-eating contest is just one highlight of a full day of cowboy-themed entertainment happening in the Stockyards, where over 35,000 visitors are expected for the National Day of the American Cowboy — an event once named the “Best Cowboy Tribute Event” in the nation by American Cowboy magazine.
From 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., the district comes alive with a Cowboy Celebration parade, armadillo races, cowboy poetry, face painting, gunfight reenactments, live music, and the Fort Worth Herd cattle drive. There’s even a petting zoo, cow milking, horseback rides, and a chance to witness the Stockyards Championship Rodeo in all its boot-stomping glory.
For Riscky’s, the rib-eating competition isn’t just about who can chow down the fastest — it’s about honoring a legacy. Founded in 1927 by Polish immigrants Mary and Joe Riscky, the business began as a modest grocery and market on Azle Avenue. Nearly a century later, it has grown into a Texas empire with multiple restaurants, a steakhouse, a burger joint, a catering arm, and a retail division — all while staying true to its Fort Worth roots.
The family-run operation has spanned four generations of Risckys, served countless slabs of ribs, and maintained an unshakable commitment to the community. That spirit is on full display each July, when the Stockyards transform into a stage for Western pride and barbecue bravado.
So if you’re in Fort Worth and hear the call of the cowboy — and maybe your stomach growling — head to 140 East Exchange Avenue. You don’t have to eat a mountain of ribs to take part in the celebration. But if you do, be warned: you’ve only got one minute to make history.