BBQ HOF Events

Black Apron Ceremony

The Black Apron Reception is the most esteemed event in the barbecue industry. Each year, Barbecue Hall of Famers, past and present, gather at this exclusive party prior to the Barbecue Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.

During the Black Apron Ceremony, each inductee is presented with their personal and one-of-a-kind Hall of Fame Black Apron. In addition to their award, this apron represents the highest level of honor to these individuals who contribute to the world of BBQ.

Induction Ceremony

Each year, the Barbecue Hall of Fame® at the American Royal honors three individuals who, by extraordinary achievement and service, have made outstanding and significant contributions to barbecue. Our mission is to identify and honor the evolving history and traditions of barbecue while we recognize, document and preserve the heritage of barbecue in our world. Induction into the Barbecue Hall of Fame is barbecue’s top honor and recognizes the substantial influence to the advancement of barbecue.