Barbecue festivals gain momentum in 2025, offering more than just a plate of ribs. With record attendance, new city hosts and an increasingly diverse lineup of pitmasters, these events now anchor travel plans and food calendars nationwide. From Memphis to Ohio, this year’s circuit promises bold flavors, fierce competition and a deep dive into regional barbecue identities.

A variety of grilled meats, flatbreads, and sausages are being cooked on an outdoor grill at a lively bbq festival, with chefs in orange aprons working in the background.
Photo credit: Depositphotos.

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