Yaga's Wild Game & BBQ Cook-Off in Galveston, TX | Visit Galveston

Yaga's Wild Game & BBQ Cook Off

Get ready to indulge in some of the best wild game and BBQ at this year's Yaga's Wild Game & BBQ Cook-Off.

This competition is an excellent way for backyard chefs, sportsmen and women, and outdoor enthusiasts to show off their culinary skills and enjoy some good old-fashioned fun, fellowship and food. New in 2023, this premiere spring event will be held at Moody Gardens!

Date: May 13, 2023

A chef stands over a large grill during Yaga's Wild Game & BBQ Cook-Off in Galveston, TX.

Schedule of Events

Events

When: April 22, 2023
Where: Float Pool and Patio Bar

It's that time of year again, crawfish season! Be sure to come to one of the larger annual fundraisers for the Yaga's Children's Fund.

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Events

When: May 12, 2023
Where:
Colonel Paddlewheel Boat

This year's Friday Night Fundraiser will be aboard the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat docked at Moody Garden's right next to the cook-off area.

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Events

When: May 13, 2023
Where:
Moody Gardens

Are you ready to run WILD? Join us at Moody Gardens on Cookoff morning and start your day off right. It's all about the kids! Proceeds go directly to the charity of your choice.

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A chef brushes sauce onto chicken wings cooking over a grill in Galveston, TX.
Yaga's Wild Game & BBQ Cook Off
History of Giving Back

The cook-off began in 1997 with the intention of creating a family-oriented two-day event in the downtown district. Yaga’s Children’s Fund grew each year, and in 2002 twenty-three teams participated with an attendance of over 3,000 people across three city blocks and were able to raise $20,000 towards that year’s charities. That year Yaga’s Children’s Fund 501-(c)(3) non-profit was formed and was expanded to its current location on Pier 21.

Throughout the years of the event, the Yaga’s Children’s Fund has allocated an excess of $1,300,000 for Galveston County children’s charities. The current volunteer board works hard year-round to fund numerous charities with the assistance of generous sponsors and cook teams. The Wild Game BBQ Cook-off is now the premier spring event in downtown Galveston!

Throughout its history, for every dollar in sponsorships the fund receives, it has paid to charity $1.20. Also, the fund continues to hold its expense ratio below 11%, which allows for an 89% payout!

Check Back Soon For Event Details