Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Pig Pickin’ – the ultimate Southern-style barbecue! Since its inception in 1985, thanks to the visionary past Alumni Foundation director, Hugh Ellis Walker, the Pig Pickin’ has evolved from a small gathering in Shumate Park into a massive celebration! Now, we welcome thousands of alumni, friends, community members, current students, and even prospective students to the vibrant Statesmen Park. The weekend is jam-packed with tailgating, thrilling live entertainment, a fierce cooking competition, and, of course, delicious BBQ! And don’t forget the excitement of DSU football! Join us for an action-packed weekend you won't want to miss!
WHAT IS PIG PICKIN’?
Q: Can I sample the competitors’ food?
A: No! Sampling is not allowed. Our cooking competition is a sanctioned competition with the Memphis BBQ Network. You can purchase a plate of Yo Eddie’s BBQ at the Alumni Association tent or visit one of our vendors for other dining options.
COOKING COMPETITION
Q: What events will take place during the weekend?
A: We have several events taking place during the weekend. You can view our full schedule of events HERE.
EVENTS
FOOD
Q: How much are BBQ meal tickets?
A: BBQ Tickets will be $15.00 each and include a BBQ sandwich, baked beans, cole slaw, and a drink.
Q: Can I purchase BBQ tickets ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You may purchase BBQ tickets HERE or stop by the Hugh Ellis Walker Alumni-Foundation house to purchase tickets.
Q: Can I purchase BBQ tickets the day of Pig Pickin’?
A: Yes, we will have tickets available for purchase at our Alumni Association Registration tent located at the entrance of Statesmen Park.
Q: What food options are available while attending Pig Pickin’?
A: Yo Eddie’s BBQ, Ray and Gail’s Pork Skins, Mac’s Shaved Ice, and Kingdom Grounds Coffee will be set up at Statesmen Park!
Q: Where can I stay when I come to Cleveland for Pig Pickin’?
A: Visit Cleveland has several lodging options.
LODGING
Q: Where do I park during Pig Pickin’?
A: As of 5:00 PM Friday, all color lots (1-7) are designated parking and can only be accessed with the appropriate placard.
A limited number of Lot 6 parking spots will be available beginning at 3:00 PM Saturday for $15 or $10 in advance HERE.
Additional parking will be available at Shumate Park, Walter Sillers Coliseum, Kent Wyatt Hall, and across MS Highway 8 on campus.
Vehicles with the appropriate Pig Pickin’ BBQ team parking pass are permitted to park in the grass area north of Lot 5 and east of Statesmen Park.
Parking
Pig Pickin’ Shirts
Q: Can I purchase official Pig Pickin’ merchandise the day of Pig Pickin’?
A: Yes, we will have shirts and caps available for purchase at our Alumni Association Registration tent. We do pre-sell these items, so quantities will be limited the day of the event. It is best to purchase early!
Tailgating
Q: How do I reserve a space at Statesmen Park for tailgating?
A: Alumni, family, and friends DO NOT have to reserve a space for tailgating. There is plenty of space set aside for tents. However, all student and university-affiliated groups must register with the Office of Student Affairs HERE.
Q: Is there a fee to reserve a tailgating space?
A: No, tailgating spaces are FREE!!