Each May, the city of Murphysboro celebrates General John A. Logan Days. Named the famous Civil War general who was from Murphysboro. The celebration is held during the second weekend in May and features various events including a carnival and authentic historical recreations of actual events during the civil war era. It is a fun time, enjoyed by all. The annual Barbeque Cook-Off is held the third weekend in September after Labor Day.
Teams can cook in one, two, or all three categories.
The categories are whole hog, shoulders, and ribs. There are on-site and blind judging in each category. There is a free street dance on Friday night. Skits are performed by the team for showmanship. Other contests, for example hog calling, are open to the public.