Foodies rejoice! The Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle is returning for its 34th year in D.C., cooking up another legendary weekend filled with flavorful food, live entertainment, and some friendly competition in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
The epic two-day culinary festival is coming to town from June 27-28, and will take place on D.C.’s Historic Pennsylvania Avenue. This year, the festival has been coined the “Official National Barbecue Championship” and the “official kick-off of summer in our Nation’s Capital” by U.S. Congress.
Food & Drink
The Giant BBQ Battle brings foodies together, inviting attendees to indulge in plates on plates of free food samples. Additional mouth-watering barbecue from DMV area restaurants, as well as libations, will be available for purchase.
This year, the Giant Barbecue Battle will celebrate culinary traditions from across the globe. Expect cuisine from nearly 20 countries, thanks to participation from embassies and international food brands from Peru, Guatemala, Japan, and beyond.
As you sample some of the best barbecue you’ve ever tasted in the form of chicken, ribs, brisket, burgers, and beyond, you’ll also encounter three stages packed with ongoing entertainment.
Contests & Entertainment
Watch as the nation’s top pitmasters attempt to smoke out the competition for more than $50,000 in cash and prizes. Celebrity chefs and TV personalities will also be onsite to host live cooking demonstrations.
The entertainment doesn’t stop at food (but did we mention there’s also a Nathan’s World Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest?). With numerous rock, reggae, Salsa, go-go, and R&B performances, the Giant BBQ Battle is a whole weekend affair.
The weekend also includes interactive sports experiences featuring the Wizards, Mystics, Capitals, Go-Go, Spirit, and D.C. United — plus FIFA World Cup-themed activities and fan engagement.
The legendary event will begin on Saturday, June 27, from 11 am to 9 pm, and continue on Sunday, June 28, from 11 am to 7 pm. One-day passes start at $20 and weekend passes start at $30. Check out the Giant BBQ Battle’s website for the full lineup of events and ticketing options.
