The Carolina BBQ Festival, a cornerstone of the Charlotte SHOUT! event, is set to return on April 4th and 5th, 2025, at Victoria Yards in Charlotte, North Carolina. This annual festival offers an immersive experience into the rich traditions of Southern barbecue, featuring a diverse array of culinary delights, live entertainment, and community engagement.
Festival Highlights
Barbecue Offerings: Attendees can indulge in a variety of mouthwatering barbecue dishes, including whole hog, brisket, chicken, hash and rice, and seafood. These offerings are meticulously prepared by expert pitmasters, ensuring an authentic and flavorful experience.
Beverage Selections: Complementing the barbecue, the festival provides a selection of beverages, including beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options. This variety ensures that every guest can find a refreshing drink to pair with their meal.
Live Entertainment: The festival features live performances from local and regional artists, showcasing genres such as funk, soul, and bluegrass. A DJ further enhances the lively atmosphere, providing a dynamic soundtrack to the event.
Vendors and Marketplace: A diverse range of vendors will be present, offering unique products and services. Guests can explore a marketplace featuring BBQ rubs, sauces, desserts, fresh lemonades, custom trucker hats, and more.
Cultural Experience: A special onsite brick pit will provide a glimpse into the heritage of whole hog cooking, allowing attendees to appreciate the traditional methods that define Carolina barbecue.
Event Schedule
Friday, April 4, 2025: The festivities commence with a lively Kickoff Event at 6:00 pm at Victoria Yards. This opening event sets the tone for the weekend, featuring music, food, and opportunities to meet the pitmasters.
Saturday, April 5, 2025: The main festival day offers two tasting sessions:
Session 1: 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Session 2: 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Each session provides guests with the opportunity to sample offerings from over 15 pitmasters, totaling more than 5 pounds of food.
Ticket Information
Tickets for the Carolina BBQ Festival are available for purchase through Eventbrite and the official festival website. Each ticket includes access to the festival, tastings from multiple pitmasters, and entertainment. Given the popularity of the event, early ticket purchase is recommended to secure preferred session times.
About the Organizers
The Carolina BBQ Festival is part of the Charlotte SHOUT! event, a citywide celebration of arts, culture, and community. The festival is organized by a team dedicated to promoting the rich traditions of Carolina barbecue while supporting charitable causes. Proceeds from the event benefit organizations such as Operation BBQ Relief and Hungry Heroes, which provide food relief and comfort to those in need.
Planning Your Visit
Location: Victoria Yards is located in the heart of Charlotte, offering easy access to various accommodations, restaurants, and attractions.
Accommodations: Several hotels are situated near Victoria Yards, providing convenient lodging options for attendees. It’s advisable to book accommodations early to ensure availability.
Transportation: Charlotte is accessible via major highways, and Victoria Yards is within walking distance of the Charlotte Transportation Center, which serves multiple bus lines. Public transportation options are available for those traveling by train or bus.
Additional Information
For the latest updates on participating pitmasters, entertainment schedules, and vendor information, visit the official Carolina BBQ Festival website. The website provides comprehensive details to help attendees plan their visit and make the most of the festival experience.
The Carolina BBQ Festival 2025 promises to be a memorable event for barbecue enthusiasts and newcomers alike. With its diverse food offerings, live entertainment, and vibrant atmosphere, the festival is a celebration of Carolina’s rich barbecue heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned barbecue aficionado or simply looking for a fun, flavorful day out, the Carolina BBQ Festival offers a one-of-a-kind experience for all ages.
Mark your calendars for April 4th and 5th, 2025, and join fellow barbecue lovers at Victoria Yards for an unforgettable celebration of Southern culinary traditions.