
Nothing says summer like barbecue and cold drinks. And if you’re looking for something to celebrate the start of the season, an epic two-day culinary festival is coming to D.C. this weekend on Saturday, June 22, and Sunday, 23.
The Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle is returning for its 32nd summer, cooking up another legendary weekend filled with flavorful food, live entertainment, and some friendly competition.
To combat the heat, visitors can stay cool with free chilled water and other hydration stations, misting tents, covered dining areas, free handheld fans, and more!
Food & Drink
Taking over Historic Pennsylvania Avenue, the Giant BBQ Battle brings foodies together, inviting attendees to indulge in plates on plates of free food samples. Get ready to enjoy bites from Sweet Baby Ray’s, Philly Gourmet, Capital City Mambo Sauce, Oscar Meyer, Impossible Foods, and more. Additional mouth-watering barbecue from DMV area restaurants, as well as libations, will be available for purchase.
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 top chefs provide live cooking demonstrations and pitmasters attempt to smoke out the competition in cook-offs. There’s even a contest to see which local D.C. chef has the best mumbo sauce in the city!
The entertainment doesn’t stop at food (but did we mention there’s also a hot dog eating contest?). From a cornhole tournament to Afrobeats, rock, reggae, jazz, and blues performances, the Giant BBQ Battle is a whole weekend affair. There will even be an appearance from White Ford Bronco, Washington, D.C.’s all-90s band.
Monster Energy BMX and skateboarding freestyle shows will keep the energy high as they perform jaw-dropping stunts. As you soak up the awe-inspiring entertainment and treat your tastebuds to delicious food, the community event raises millions of dollars for local non-profit organizations. Talk about a win-win!
The event will begin on Saturday, June 22 from 11 am to 9 pm, and continue on Sunday, June 23 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.