April 17 – April 18
Celebrate the tradition of whole hog BBQ and so much more at the 5th annual Carolina BBQ Festival, with tastings from 30+ pitmasters and chefs from the Carolinas and beyond.
The 2026 Carolina BBQ Festival takes place April 17–18, 2026, at Victoria Yards and the adjacent parking lot in Uptown Charlotte, NC, in support of Operation BBQ Relief, in partnership with Charlotte SHOUT. Festival tickets include tasting plates from participating pitmasters and chefs, with the weekend designed for guests who want to come hungry and sample widely.
Friday night runs 6:00–10:00 PM and celebrates all things Charlotte BBQ, featuring tastings from 5+ local BBQ spots, live music and a DJ, and a chance to watch pits get set up for festival day.
Saturday delivers the full festival experience with tasting plates from 25 pitmaster stations and a menu mix that can include whole hog, brisket, chicken, hash & rice, seafood, and more. Guests can also expect local vendors and sponsor activations, plus an on-site brick pit showcasing the heritage of whole hog cooking. Beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options are available for purchase.
As part of the festival’s BBQ for a Cause focus, sponsors donate grills and BBQ-related tools and swag for an on-site raffle benefiting Operation BBQ Relief. The festival’s theme says it best: Divided by Sauce, United by Coal.
The Kickoff: $35 (Friday, April 17 • 6:00–10:00 PM)
The Festival: General Admission: $75 (Saturday entry at 12:00 PM)
The Festival: VIP: $125 (Saturday entry at 11:00 AM) Includes early entry, access to the Swag Station, a VIP area with oysters + champagne, and a $10 merch voucher for Carolina BBQ Festival merch (voucher restrictions apply).
Kids (ages 7–13): $25
Kids 6 and under: Free with a selected ticket at checkout
Find details at carolinabbqfest.org and @carolinabbqfestival on Instagram. Tickets are non-refundable, and the event is rain or shine.
Check out our Charities here
Ample parking is available around Center City with differing prices. The closest parking is located at the 7th street station parking garage or the surface lot on the backside of the event – 8th and N. College. You can find additional surrounding parking locations with Parkme here. Or Park Mobile here.
Entry will take place on 7th Street right across from the 7th Street Parking Garage beside of 7th Street Market
No animals will be allowed inside the festival area except for service animals.
Great News! We have secured a partnership with Homewood Suites by Hilton, Charlotte Uptown First Ward. Right beside the festival venue and lot. There is also a map of accommodations included below.
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