Security Tips for Attending the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest
The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest in Memphis, TN is the Super Bowl of Swine, attracting top pitmasters, barbecue lovers, and thousands of visitors from all over the world. As part of the Memphis in May Festival, this event offers an unforgettable experience filled with mouth-watering BBQ, live music, and intense competition.
However, with huge crowds, long lines, and bustling activity, security should be a priority for every visitor. From pickpockets and lost belongings to parking scams and key lockouts, it’s important to be prepared for potential risks.
This guide will help you:
✅ Stay safe in crowded areas & avoid pickpockets.
✅ Protect your valuables, keys, and personal items.
✅ Find safe & secure parking near the festival.
✅ Know what to do if you get locked out or lose your keys.
Let’s make sure your BBQ festival experience is fun, safe, and stress-free!
Staying Safe in Crowded Areas
With thousands of people attending the Barbecue Cooking Contest, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid common festival security risks.
Watch Out for Pickpockets
Pickpockets target large events like this one. Keep wallets, phones, and keys in a zippered bag or front pocket.
- Avoid carrying valuables in back pockets or open bags.
- Consider using a money belt or anti-theft backpack.
Pro Tip: Keep your phone in a secure, hard-to-reach pocket instead of holding it in your hand while walking..
Have a Meeting Spot for Your Group
Large crowds make it easy to get separated from your friends or family.
- Choose a designated meeting point near a visible landmark.
- If your phone dies, you’ll know where to regroup
Pro Tip: Take a photo of your group before entering the festival so everyone remembers what they’re wearing.
Be Cautious Around Food & Drink Vendors
While the BBQ contest is all about great food, be aware of unlicensed food vendors.
- Stick to official vendors inside the festival grounds.
- Watch your drink at all times to avoid accidental spills or tampering.
Pro Tip: Always check food booths for official festival permits to ensure quality & safety.
How to Protect Your Valuables & Personal Items
With so much excitement at the event, losing personal items is a common issue. Here’s how to keep your belongings safe.
1. Use a Crossbody Bag or Fanny Pack
A crossbody bag with zippers is harder for thieves to access.
- Avoid carrying a backpack that can easily be opened in a crowd.
- Fanny packs worn in front are great for securing small items.
Pro Tip: Consider a bag with RFID-blocking technology to protect your credit cards.
2. Keep Your Keys Secure
Losing your keys at a massive event like this can be frustrating and stressful.
- Attach a Bluetooth key tracker (Tile or AirTag) so you can locate your keys easily.
- Store your keys in a zippered pocket instead of loose in a bag.
Pro Tip: If possible, leave an extra key with a trusted friend or in your hotel.
3. Avoid Carrying Too Much Cash
Carrying large amounts of cash makes you a target for thieves.
- Use a credit card or mobile payment options instead.
- If you need cash, use ATMs inside secure festival zones.
Pro Tip: Separate cash into different pockets so you don’t pull out large amounts at once.
Safe & Secure Parking Near the Festival
Finding safe parking in Memphis during a major event like the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest can be tricky. Here are the best and safest places to park.
Tom Lee Park Parking Lots (Official Parking)
Location: Near the festival grounds.
- ✅ Closest to the BBQ contest.
- ✅ Well-lit & monitored.
- ❌ Expensive & fills up fast.
Pro Tip: Arrive early (at least 2 hours before the event) to get a spot in this official lot.
Beale Street Parking Garages (Secure & Convenient)
Location: Downtown Memphis, 5-10 minute walk from the festival.
- ✅ Secure, covered parking.
- ✅ Great for visitors who want to enjoy Beale Street nightlife after the festival.
- ❌ Slightly higher parking rates during peak hours.
Pro Tip: Some Beale Street restaurants & bars offer parking validation—check before you park!
Public Parking on Riverside Drive (Cheapest Option)
Location: Riverside Drive, Memphis, TN
- ✅ Most affordable parking ($5-$10).
- ❌ Requires a 10-15 minute walk to the event.
- ❌ Limited security.
Pro Tip: Park near streetlights for better security and avoid leaving valuables in your car.
What to Do If You Get Locked Out or Lose Your Keys
Even with careful planning, losing your keys or getting locked out can happen. Here’s what to do:
Step 1: Retrace Your Steps
- Check around BBQ tents, seating areas, and food vendors.
- Ask festival security or Lost & Found if someone turned in your keys.
Step 2: Visit the Festival’s Lost & Found Booth
Location: Check the official Memphis in May information booth.
Pro Tip: Write down the Lost & Found phone number in case your phone dies.
Step 3: Call a Trusted Memphis Locksmith
Call a Trusted Memphis Locksmith
If your keys are missing, a professional Memphis locksmith can:
- Unlock your car without damage.
- Cut & program a new key on-site.
- Help with broken or jammed locks.
📞 Need help fast? Call an emergency locksmith near the festival!
Conclusion
The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest is an amazing event, but staying safe should be a priority.
✅ Protect your valuables & stay alert in crowded areas.
✅ Park in secure, well-lit locations.
✅ Keep your keys in a zippered pocket or attach a tracker.
✅ Call a Memphis locksmith if you get locked out.
🚗 Plan ahead & stay safe—so you can focus on enjoying world-class BBQ!
📞 Locked out or lost your keys? Call a trusted Memphis locksmith now!