PADERBORN BBQ CONTEST 2026

Paderborn BBQ Contest is just around the corner, taking place on July 4–5. I probably don’t need to remind anyone that Paderborn is the longest-running freestyle skate competition in the world, reaching its 26th edition this year. Nor do I need to mention what everyone already knows: it has become the second-largest freestyle event in the world in terms of participants, right behind WorldFreestyle.

For many of us in Europe, Paderborn was our first love. The authentic atmosphere and laid-back vibe this event offers are truly incredible, and I believe that’s the main reason why so many skaters return year after year. To be honest, the surface itself is probably one of the toughest you’ll ever encounter at a competition, well, unless we count the legendary asphalt from the 2013 World Championships held inside the NASS Festival in England, now that was hardcore!

But let’s get back to the important details.

The event will take place over two days. Saturday will be dedicated entirely to Street Competition, while Sunday will host the Freestyle Competition. Accommodation can be completely free if you bring your own tent and camp on the grass next to the skatepark. Shared showers will be available for skaters starting on Friday, and there will also be portable toilets located near the camping area.

As always, Sunday morning breakfast will be provided free of charge in the form of a buffet. And honestly, it seems to get better and better every year.

The entry fee is €20, and after registration you’ll receive a bottle of water and an event T-shirt.

This year, the Paderborn organizers have decided to limit the competition to a maximum of 60 participants. They want to preserve the unique atmosphere of the event and avoid turning it into an oversized contest. Besides, judging a much larger field of competitors would simply become too difficult within the available time.

Speaking of participation numbers, I noticed an interesting change in the divisions. Just like at WorldFreestyle, the Women’s division will now be split into Amateur and Professional categories. In addition, there will be Pro, Amateur, Legends (their preferred name for the Masters division), and Next Gen divisions. The Next Gen category, introduced last year, is designed for riders under the age of 14. There is no Rookies division, following the same direction taken by WorldFreestyle.

Everything points toward another amazing and fun-filled edition this year, and we can’t wait to see what great memories we’ll create together once again.

See you in Paderborn!