The "Christmas on the River Cook-off" started in Demopolis in 1989 as part of "Christmas on the River" festivities. The Cook-off is an event involving teams from nine states, 75 judges and 8,000 barbeque fanatics. There are three competitions - ribs, shoulders and whole hog. The winner is eligible to participate in the World Championship "Memphis in May Barbeque Cooking Contest." In addition to the barbecue contest, arts, crafts, parades and
dancing go on for a whole week.

The Demopolis Christmas on the River Barbeque Cook-off became the
official state barbeque championship by Act no. 91-739.