Cotton Holdings Returns as Title Sponsor of WCBBQ for the 5th Year
Cotton Holdings, Inc. is gearing up for another unforgettable year at the 2026 World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest. As the returning Title Sponsor for the 5th year, Cotton continues to lead the charge, serving up exceptional culinary moments while elevating the signature Cotton ‘Q Club into a premier hospitality experience.
Celebrating Fifth Year as Title Sponsor
From the very beginning, Cotton aligned with the Rodeo’s mission of giving back, particularly through scholarship programs that empower Texas students and strengthen the future of our state. The relationship deepened as Cotton stepped into the role of Title Sponsor of the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest in 2021, evolving into a partnership with an even larger platform to celebrate Western heritage, as well as Houston’s vibrant culture and community.
The Return of the Cotton ‘Q Club
In 2026, the Cotton ‘Q Club returns as a fully immersive, 10,000-square-foot luxury experience that redefines hospitality at the Rodeo Cookoff. Blending modern Western style with bold, high-impact design, the “country-chic” tent will feature:
Dramatic ceiling installations
Cascading crystal chandeliers
Gold-framed trophy mounts
A striking 50-foot bar wrapped in rich green velvet
Best Bites and the 7th Buckle
Beyond hospitality, Cotton Culinary continues to make its mark on the competition stage among 3,127 entries from 25 countries all over the world.
This year’s Best Bites win marked:
Our 7th buckle
Our 5th People’s Choice Grand Champion title — the ultimate honor of the competition
This year’s Grand Champion dish, Huntsman’s Harvest, was a mosaic trio of wild game — wild boar, venison and rabbit — served atop a crispy risotto cake with ancho wildberry gastrique and juniper crème fraîche.
Honoring the Community and Heritage
At its heart, the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest is about community and heritage (in addition to brisket and buckles). Cotton is committed to honoring the traditions that make us who we are and building a lasting legacy that reflects the very best of Houston and Texas.
Now, let’s rodeo!
