Celebrate Summer at the 33rd Annual Giant National Capital BBQ Battle
- America's Food & Music Festival
Featuring mouthwatering competitions, Free food tastings, cooking demos, live music, wine tastings, craft beers, and activities for all age
Date and time
Location
555 Pennsylvania Ave NW
555 Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest Washington, DC 20001 United StatesRefund Policy
About this event
Welcome to the 33rd Annual Giant National Capital BBQ Battle!
Now in its 33rd year, the Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle is one of America's most beloved and flavorful annual events, celebrating the Art of BBQ in a spirit of Unity, Community and Celebration. Held in the heart of the nation’s capital on the first weekend of summer each year, this two-day festival transforms Pennsylvania Avenue and surrounding streets into a vibrant showcase of smoky flavors, live music, and family-friendly fun.Recognized as America’s "Official National BBQ Championship" on the floor of Congress, the Giant Barbecue Battle features mouthwatering competitions where top pitmasters from across the country compete for prestigious titles. Attendees can enjoy a variety of free food tastings, cooking demonstrations, wine & craft beers, live entertainment on multiple stages and activities for all ages. The Giant BBQ Battle is a can’t-miss summer celebration of community, culture, and, of course, incredible BBQ.
Frequently asked questions
Your ticket is good one day, either Saturday June 21 or Sunday June 22, 2025.
Saturday June 21, 2025 - 11am to 9pm Sunday June 22, 2025 - 11 am to 7pm
Although we love pets, due to the crowds and hot asphalt surface, pets are not permitted on the event site. Service Animals are always welcomed with proper documentation!
This year we are promoting Bike to the Battle by offering free Bike Valet Parking. See event site map for Bike parking location.
Yes, Microbrews, Wine, Prepared Cocktails, assorted nonalcoholic beverages, Sodas, Lemonade and Water will all be available for sale.
This year we will have extra seating near our stages and dining areas. We do not allow chairs, coolers or glass bottles on the event site to ensure compliance with DC health and safety code. You may however bring water in plastic bottles into the event site for personal use.
Literally, (metric) tons of free food and beverage samples will be given away free of charge. All sampling is while supplies last. There will be numerous sampling tents throughout the event site providing BBQ & Grilled Food samples along with all your favorite salty snacks, deserts, drinks & more.
Some of the best BBQ restaurants in the country will be selling at the event, including some who are also competing! While BBQ Teams will be cooking for certified judges throughout the weekend DC Health Code doesn't permit them to sell or sample to attendees.
Metro is by far the best way to get to the event. Closest stations are Smithsonian or Archives. You can also Bike to the Battle, with free valet bike parking. If driving use 555 Pennsylvania Ave, NW as a navigational destination. Visit BBQDC.com for a list of parking garages near the event.
We'd love to have you involved! Please go to our site (bbqdc.com) and clock the "get involved' form.
You can visit www.bbqdc.com for detailed information to download a contest application.
Yes! This is a family friendly event, kids 12 & under are free! Kids will enjoy sports activities from the Washington Capitals, Mystics, Wizards, DC United and others. There will be exciting BMX stunt bike & skateboarding shows, free food, candy & ice cream samples, fun arts activities & more!
Visit www.BBQDC.com or email us at info@BBQDC.com
All ticket sales are final, and the event is held rain or shine. You can use your ticket either day of the event weekend or gift it to a friend.