Ohio 4-H is excited to introduce a new opportunity for senior 4-H members ages 14–18 to showcase their poultry knowledge, food preparation skills, and communication abilities through the Chicken and Turkey Barbecue Contests.
The Ohio contest will follow the National 4-H Poultry and Egg Conference contest rules and format for both Chicken Barbecue and Turkey Barbecue.
2026 Workshop & Mock Contest
For 2026, Ohio 4-H will host a workshop and mock contest designed to introduce youth to the national contest format, expectations, and preparation techniques. We will NOT have the presentation portion of the contest, but will instead help to prepare the selected national contest individuals on the presentation protocol after the Ohio 4-H contest. This will give participants an opportunity to learn the contest before Ohio moves into a full competitive format.
Following the 2026 program, one Chicken Barbecue participant and one Turkey Barbecue participant will be selected to represent Ohio at the National 4-H Poultry and Egg Conference.
Eligibility: Senior Ohio 4-H members, ages 14–18
Contest Information:
Contest Dates: November 18-19, 2026
Location: Animal Science Building -OSU Campus
Rule Highlights:
- Each contestant will prepare four (4) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (1.5-2.0 lb. total) and turkey patties using ground turkey (as is 85-90% lean) provided by the contest monitors.
- Any spices, rubs, or sauces that will be used must be brought to the contest by the contestant.
- Youth contestants must bring pre-prepared recipe cards with them to the contest check-in.
- Ohio Contest Specific Rules:
- Individuals will cook both chicken and turkey back-to-back on their provided grill.
- We will not have a presentation portion of the contest in 2026.
- Youth will have a 3-hour time limit to prepare both chicken and turkey recipes for the contest.
Other Preparation Resources: