VFW Post 8905’s 40th Semi-Annual BBQ Cook-Off Returns to Cypress April 10–11, Supporting Northwest Harris County Veterans
When the smoke starts rolling behind VFW Post 8905 in Cypress this April, it won’t just be about brisket and ribs. It will be about community, connection and continued support for veterans across Northwest Harris County.
The 40th Semi-Annual VFW Post 8905 BBQ Cook-Off is set for April 10–11, 2026, at 21902 Northwest Freeway in Cypress, TX 77429. The annual spring event draws competitive barbecue teams from across Texas to compete under International Barbeque Cookers Association (IBCA) rules — while raising funds to support the post’s mission and veteran outreach programs.
A Backyard Full of Rigs — and a Purpose Behind Every Pit
Each spring and fall, BBQ teams fill the VFW Post 8905 grounds with smokers, trailers and custom rigs, transforming the backyard into a full-scale competition site. This year’s cook-off features brisket, pork spareribs, chicken, beans and open category entries.
The $200 entry fee covers brisket, chicken and ribs, with optional $20 entry categories for jackpot beans and open competition. Teams are also required to provide an item for the live auction, further contributing to the fundraiser.
Judging follows IBCA standards, which prohibit garnishes and require precise turn-in quantities, including eight brisket slices, eight pork spareribs and one-half fully jointed chicken, meat side up. IBCA operates as a Texas-based nonprofit corporation focused on fair and equitable competitive barbecue cooking and standardized judging.
The cook-off schedule includes:
Friday, April 10
- 6 p.m. Head Cook’s Meeting
Saturday, April 11
- 10 a.m. Silent Auction
- 11 a.m. Beans judging
- Noon Chicken
- 1:30 p.m. Ribs
- 3 p.m. Brisket
- 5 p.m. Live Auction & Awards Ceremony
BBQ plates go on sale at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, featuring $15 brisket plates, $8 pulled pork sandwiches and $5 homemade cobblers.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
More Than a Competition — A Community Gathering
The event includes a 50/50 raffle, bake sale, meat raffle, liquor wagon raffle, lotto ticket raffle and local vendors, making it a full-day Cypress community event.
Last year’s cook-off brought out 29 BBQ teams and hundreds of attendees. In a statement following the event, Post 8905 shared appreciation for all volunteers, the 29 BBQ cook-off teams, and everyone who donated their time, talent, and gifts to the Post, noting that the semi-annual fundraiser plays a crucial role in enabling the organization to fulfill its various missions.
Those missions extend far beyond a single weekend.
Serving Cypress Veterans Since 1944
Founded in August 1944, VFW Post 8905 has served generations of veterans and remains a cornerstone of support in Northwest Harris County. The post provides assistance to veterans and their families, hosts community events and offers a gathering place where service members can connect and find camaraderie.
The recently renovated, smoke-free canteen is open to the public and known locally for its affordable drinks and welcoming atmosphere. The facility also offers event hall rentals for parties, receptions and meetings, with amenities including pool tables, darts, a jukebox and kitchen access.
Throughout the year, Post 8905 hosts TAS Wrestling nights, holiday celebrations, cornhole tournaments, chili cook-offs, fish fries, steak nights and bingo events. During natural disasters, members often mobilize to support community relief efforts.
For Cypress residents, the BBQ cook-off represents more than good food. It helps fund veteran outreach, supports families in need and strengthens one of the area’s longest-standing service organizations.
What Residents Should Know
- Location: VFW Post 8905, 21902 Northwest Freeway, Cypress, TX 77429
- Dates: April 10–11, 2026
- Public events and plate sales: Saturday beginning at 11:30 a.m.
- Phone: 281-469-6632
- Website: VFW8905.org
Teams can check in beginning Thursday, April 9, with final setup required before Saturday morning judging.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
What Happens Next
With its 40th semi-annual installment, the event continues to grow as one of the most anticipated spring events in Cypress and Northwest Houston. Organizers encourage teams to reserve spots early and community members to arrive early for plates before they sell out.
As smoke fills the air and neighbors gather under tents, the weekend will once again reflect what VFW Post 8905 has stood for since 1944 — service, fellowship and support for those who have served.
Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for updates on local Cypress events, veteran initiatives and community traditions that continue shaping Northwest Harris County.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.