The World Series of Barbecue is back in 2021 Sarah Plake and last updated 2021-04-29 11:50:19-04 KANSAS CITY, Mo. â The American Royal World Series of Barbecue is back. âThe World Series of Barbecue is often referred to as the âfamily reunionâ of competitive barbecue,â said Glen Alan Phillips, president and CEO of the American Royal. âItâs the one time during the year where all of the competitors, from the elites to the amateurs, get together in one space to fire up hundreds of smokers â and have a great time in the process.â Competitors will battle for the title of Grand Champion in both the open and invitational contests.