Southern Living Lowcountry Tailgate brings a college-football-style gathering to the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston, pairing barbecue from regional pitmasters with Southern food, cocktails, and live music.
Barbecue has been part of the Tailgate from the beginning. The participating chefs and exact menu can change, but invited pitmasters and Southern barbecue remain central to the event rather than simply another food option.
NOTE: The Lowcountry Tailgate is a separately ticketed signature event within the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston, rather than a standalone public festival. For 2026, Tailgate tickets are currently available only to Food & Wine Classic passholders, so guests need access to the larger festival before they can purchase a ticket to the Tailgate.
A Southern Tailgate Built Around Barbecue
This is not a barbecue competition. The Lowcountry Tailgate is a hosted food-and-drink event where chefs and pitmasters serve guests while live music and the college-football theme give the evening the feel of a polished Southern tailgate.
Regional barbecue is a big reason the event stands out for Destination BBQ readers. The lineup changes from year to year, bringing different pitmasters and cooking styles into the mix alongside other Southern dishes and drinks.
Part of the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston
The Tailgate is one of the signature experiences connected with the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston. It debuted with the inaugural Classic in 2024 and continued in the following editions, establishing it as a recurring part of the festival.
The setting, participating chefs, music, menu, and ticket arrangements can change from one edition to the next. Check the current event details before making plans, especially for admission requirements and access to this separately ticketed experience.
Admission: $295
Event Organizer
Organizer
- Name
- Southern Living
Event Location
College of Charleston’s Cistern Yard
66 George StCharleston, SC 29424
United States
