Meat In Open Auctioneer Contest Seeking Final Contestants for 2026 Event
- Media Logic Radio
- Feb 4
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 5
The Sterling Livestock Commission is gearing up for one of its most anticipated traditions as the Meat In Open Auctioneer Contest returns for its third year on March 21, 2026, at the Logan County Fairgrounds. Only seven contestant spots remain, and organizers are encouraging auctioneers from across the country to step forward for a chance at major payouts and bragging rights.
The contest carries a $300 entry fee, and each participant must bring two items expected to generate at least $200 in sales. Meat In will supply two additional items for every contestant to auction. The field is capped at 20 competitors, keeping the event fast‑paced and competitive.
Event organizers emphasize that this is a no‑nonsense contest. Participants are expected to get straight to the chant — no long speeches, no gimmicks, and no clown acts. A panel of five judges will narrow the field to the Top 5, who will advance to the final round and sell three additional items provided by the event.
The stakes are high, with more than $14,000 in total payouts. Prizes include:
1st Place: $10,000 and a custom belt buckle
2nd Place: $2,500
3rd Place: $1,500
4th Place: $600
5th Place: $400
Brian Little Memorial Award: $250 and a belt buckle
The contest begins at 12:00 p.m., and registration must be completed online through the Meat In Open Auctioneer Contest Facebook page.
Now in its sixth year, the Sterling Livestock Commission’s Meat In event was created as a community‑driven response to the state’s “Meat Out Day,” highlighting the economic and cultural importance of agriculture in northeast Colorado. The auctioneer contest has quickly become a centerpiece of the celebration.
Proceeds from the event and auction are distributed to a range of local causes, including support for a single mother from Sterling battling breast cancer, scholarships, school organizations, and several community nonprofits. Items auctioned off are donated by local businesses, farmers, and ranchers, and range from 2027 National Western Stock Show tickets to pellet smokers, handmade woodwork, steak boxes, half beef, guns, jewelry, and sports memorabilia.
Attendees can also enjoy a free hamburger feed and browse offerings from multiple vendors, creating a festive atmosphere that celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage.
With only a handful of contestant spots left, organizers say now is the time to step up. After all — who wouldn’t want a shot at $10,000?
Questions??? - jason@sterlinglivestock.com or 970-520-3049
Western Ag Life - Podcast - Featuring Jason Santomaso - Talking about the Meat In Auctioneer Contest
