The Upstate’s tastiest tradition returns this spring as the 11th annual Cribb’s Kitchen Burger Cook-Off takes over downtown Spartanburg on Saturday, May 2, 2026. Held at the corner of West Main Street and Daniel Morgan Avenue, the event kicks off at noon and continues until the burgers run out, drawing crowds from across the region for an afternoon of food, fun and fundraising.
Hosted by Cribb’s Kitchen, the Burger Cook-Off has become one of Spartanburg’s most anticipated community events, bringing together local chefs, restaurants and grill masters for a fun, friendly, and flavorful competition. Teams go head-to-head to create their best slider-style burgers, with attendees sampling and voting for their favorites while a panel of judges awards a Judges’ Choice winner.
This year’s lineup includes a record number of teams, featuring a mix of local favorites, businesses and community groups. Participants include Boyos Burgers, Bao Down, Spartanburg Marriott, Burgers Are For Everyone, Burger She Wrote, Demtek, Eggs Up Grill, Grille 221, Heirloom, Let My People Grill, Main Street Mon-Stars, Morgan Square Hospitality, New Groove, Oak 1831, Rigsby’s, Russell’s Rascals, TakoSushi, The Bakehouse, The Nutty Swine BBQ and The Regulars. With so many competitors, attendees can expect a wide variety of creative and classic burger offerings throughout the day.
While burgers are the main attraction, the event offers much more than just great food. Guests can enjoy crispy fries, baked goods and a variety of drinks including lemonade, soda, water and beer. Family-friendly activities are also a major part of the experience, with options like face painting, balloon art and even a craft station for kids. Live music and entertainment add to the lively downtown atmosphere, making it an event designed for all ages.
Beyond the fun, the Burger Cook-Off serves a powerful purpose. Proceeds benefit Children’s Cancer Partners of the Carolinas, a nonprofit organization that provides financial, emotional and practical support to families navigating childhood cancer. Every ticket purchased and every slider sampled helps fund resources for families across North and South Carolina.
Last year’s event marked a milestone as the 10th anniversary and the most successful year yet, raising an impressive $151,445.60 for the organization. Judges’ Choice honors went to Boyos Burgers, whose winning “Bacon Jam-Brie” burger earned a spot on the Cribb’s Kitchen menu, while Grille 221 took home the People’s Choice award with its crowd-favorite creation: “The Jammin’ Pimento Cheese” featuring seasoned beef, homemade pimento cheese, & jalapeño bacon jam. These standout moments set the bar high for this year’s competitors.
Tickets are sold in sheets and used throughout the event to purchase food, drinks and activities, making it easy for attendees to sample a little bit of everything. Organizers encourage guests to arrive early, come hungry and be ready to cast their votes before items sell out.
For those looking to attend, volunteer or learn more, additional information and ticket details can be found at childrenscancerpartners.org, as well as on social media by following @burgercookoff and Children’s Cancer Partners of the Carolinas on Facebook and Instagram.
As Spartanburg continues to grow its reputation for community-driven events, the Cribb’s Kitchen Burger Cook-Off remains a standout- combining great food, local talent and a meaningful mission. On May 2, residents and visitors alike will have the opportunity to enjoy a day downtown while supporting families who need it most.
