Dickey's Barbecue Pit Celebrates 85 Years with New Big Yellow Cup

The iconic Texas barbecue chain unveils a limited-edition commemorative cup to honor its legacy.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Dickey's Barbecue Pit, the world's largest barbecue concept, is celebrating its 85th anniversary by launching a new, limited-edition Big Yellow Cup. The commemorative cup, inspired by the brand's signature bright yellow look, will be available for $3.99 throughout March and April at all Dickey's locations. Dickey's will also release four more special edition cups throughout the year to honor its eight decades of serving 'Legit. Texas. Barbecue.' As part of the celebration, the company will donate a portion of the proceeds from each cup sold to The Dickey Foundation, which supports first responders across the U.S.

Why it matters

The Big Yellow Cup has been an iconic part of the Dickey's brand since the 1980s, becoming a kitchen cabinet staple in homes across the country. This anniversary celebration not only honors the family heritage and longevity of the Dickey's brand, but also gives back to the local communities it serves through support of first responders.

The details

Dickey's is releasing a new, limited-edition Big Yellow Cup for $3.99 that will be available throughout March and April. The cup is inspired by the brand's signature bright yellow look, which reflects the company's belief that 'life should always be Big Yellow Cup half full.' Dickey's will release four more commemorative cups throughout the year to celebrate its 85 years of serving 'Legit. Texas. Barbecue.' Additionally, on March 12, Dickey's is offering a free drink with the purchase of any classic sandwich or the new Smoked Ham and Cheddar sandwich at participating locations.

  • The new commemorative Big Yellow Cup will be available for $3.99 throughout March and April 2026.
  • Dickey's will release four more limited-edition cups throughout 2026 to honor its 85-year legacy.
  • On March 12, 2026, Dickey's is offering a free drink with the purchase of any classic sandwich or the new Smoked Ham and Cheddar sandwich.

The players

Dickey's Barbecue Pit

The world's largest barbecue concept, founded in 1941 by World War I veteran Travis Dickey. Dickey's is a family-founded barbecue franchise that serves slow-smoked meats and home-style sides.

Laura Rea Dickey

The CEO of Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

The Dickey Foundation

A foundation dedicated to supporting first responders across the U.S. by providing essential safety equipment, protective armor, rescue gear, and other necessary resources.

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What they’re saying

“To build a family legacy spanning 85 years is nothing short of remarkable and we have our incredible fans to thank for it.”

— Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. (RestaurantNews.com)

What’s next

Dickey's will continue to release four more limited-edition commemorative cups throughout 2026 to celebrate its 85-year anniversary.

The takeaway

Dickey's Barbecue Pit's 85-year legacy as a family-founded, Texas-style barbecue franchise is a testament to the brand's commitment to quality, community, and giving back. The new limited-edition Big Yellow Cup celebrates this milestone while also supporting first responders through The Dickey Foundation.