Photo credits: Tampa Bay Barbecue Festival & Competition
What could be better than sitting waterside, enjoying smoky barbecue, sipping a cold beer, playing cornhole, and listening to live music?
The annual Tampa Bay BBQ Festival brings together Florida’s top pitmasters for a full weekend of bold flavors, live entertainment, and laid-back waterfront vibes. From fall-off-the-bone ribs and slow-smoked brisket to craft cocktails and local brews, this is a can’t-miss celebration of food, music, and community.
Event Details
Festival Highlights:
• 100+ barbecue dishes from top competition teams
• Official BBQ Competition + People’s Choice Voting
• Live music performances all weekend
• Live mural artists
• Craft beer, cocktails & full bar access
• Games, prizes & interactive activities
Live Music Lineup:
Saturday, May 23: Rodney Atkins, Austin Snell, Noah Hunton, Owen Riegling
Sunday, May 24: Blackberry Smoke, Graham Barham, Fox N’ Vead, Luke Borchelt
Featured Pitmasters Include:
Big Red BBQ, Meathead’s BBQ, Southern Smoked by JP, Silver & Smoke, Son of a Brisket, Liberty Smokehouse, Uncle G’s BBQ, Pig In or Pig Out BBQ & more
Food Vendors:
Over 20+ food vendors offering barbecue, sides, desserts, and more
BBQ Competition
The heart of the festival is the BBQ competition featuring top pitmasters from across the country.
Competition Categories:
• Brisket
• Pulled Pork
• Chicken
• Ribs
Judging Includes:
• Taste / Flavor
• Tenderness / Texture
Winners (Grand Champion + Top 3) announced Sunday on the main stage
People’s Choice Voting:
Guests can sample entries and vote digitally for their favorite team
Tickets
General Admission:
• Free RSVP Sunday (before 2:30 PM)
• $15 Advance GA (per day)
• $25 Two-Day GA Pass
Pit Pass:
• $30 (includes preferred viewing access)
VIP Options:
VIP Ticket Includes:
• Dedicated entrance
• Private bars
• VIP viewing area
• Shade & seating (limited)
• Air-conditioned restrooms
• VIP perks & activities
Boss Hog VIP Includes:
• Lounge access
• 2 drink tickets
• BBQ sampler plate
• Exclusive viewing area
• Festival poster
Platinum VIP Includes:
• Unlimited BBQ (1–5 PM)
• Unlimited beer & cocktails
• Festival t-shirt
• Dedicated VIP bar line
Tickets available at the gate (prices may increase)
All sales final — no refunds or exchanges
Additional Info
- Outdoor, waterfront event at Vinoy Park
- Rain or shine
- Tents, tables, and seating available
- 21+ required for select areas
- Accessible accommodations available upon request
- Children are welcome. Kids 10 & under are free with a paid guardian
- Leashed dogs are permitted. Owners are responsible for cleanup and care
- Not allowed: coolers, outside drinks (except water), alcohol, or prohibited items
- Re-entry is allowed for VIP, not GA
