Imagine spending your summer surrounded by mouthwatering aromas, sizzling grills, and a lively atmosphere filled with fellow food enthusiasts. Look no further, because we have compiled a list of the top 10 outdoor cooking events to fulfill all your culinary dreams this summer. From savoring slow-smoked barbecues to indulging in gourmet food truck feasts, this article will surely make your taste buds tingle and have you marking your calendar for these must-attend events. So grab your sunscreen, bring your appetite, and get ready to embark on a delicious summer adventure.
BBQ Festivals
If you’re a barbecue lover, then you won’t want to miss out on these amazing events. BBQ festivals are a great opportunity to experience the best barbecue from different regions and enjoy a fun-filled weekend with friends and family. Here are three of the most popular BBQ festivals you should definitely consider attending:
Taste of Chicago BBQ Bash
The Taste of Chicago BBQ Bash is a must-visit event for all barbecue enthusiasts. Held in the heart of the Windy City, this festival showcases the best barbecue from local vendors and renowned pitmasters. From mouthwatering ribs to tender pulled pork, you’ll find a wide variety of barbecue styles to satisfy your cravings. The festival also offers live music, cooking demonstrations, and contests, making it a perfect place to enjoy delicious food and entertainment.
Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest
Known as the “Super Bowl of Swine,” the Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest is one of the largest and most prestigious barbecue competitions in the world. Taking place in the BBQ capital, Memphis, this event attracts teams from all over the globe to compete for the title of World Champion. Whether you’re a participant or a spectator, you’ll be able to savor incredible barbecue flavors and witness the artistry of the pitmasters. The festival also features live music, celebrity chefs, and the opportunity to sample other delicious foods.
Big Apple Barbecue Block Party
If you find yourself in New York City during the summer, make sure to check out the Big Apple Barbecue Block Party. This festival brings together the best pitmasters from around the country to showcase their skills and dishes. Located in Madison Square Park, this event offers a unique blend of barbecue flavors, with vendors representing different regional styles. From Texas brisket to Carolina pulled pork, you’ll have the chance to taste a variety of barbecue styles without leaving the city. Don’t forget to enjoy the live music and the vibrant atmosphere.
Food Truck Rodeos
Food truck rodeos have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a unique and exciting way to indulge in a wide range of culinary delights. These events gather a fleet of food trucks in one location, so you can sample various cuisines and flavors all in one place. Here are three food truck rodeos you should put on your radar:
Austin Food Truck Festival
As the capital of Texas, Austin is known for its vibrant food truck scene, and the Austin Food Truck Festival is the perfect opportunity to experience it. Held at various locations throughout the city, this festival brings together a diverse group of food trucks serving up a wide range of cuisines. From tacos and barbecue to gourmet desserts, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Take a stroll through the festival, try different dishes, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this food-loving city.
The Great American Foodie Fest
If you’re looking for a food truck festival on a grand scale, then The Great American Foodie Fest is the event for you. Held in Las Vegas, this festival showcases a vast array of food trucks from across the country. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, pizza, or gourmet burgers, you’ll find it all here. The festival also features eating contests, live entertainment, and a beer garden, ensuring a fun-filled day for everyone.
Portland Night Market
The Portland Night Market is a unique food truck rodeo experience that combines street food with artisan crafts and live performances. Held in the historic Old Town area, this market features a diverse selection of food trucks offering culinary delights from various cuisines. From Korean barbecue to Mexican street tacos, the food options are sure to satisfy your taste buds. While enjoying the delicious food, you can also browse through the market stalls for unique handmade crafts and enjoy live music and entertainment.
Outdoor Food and Wine Festivals
If you’re a food and wine enthusiast, attending an outdoor food and wine festival should be at the top of your summer bucket list. These festivals offer the perfect opportunity to sample gourmet dishes, discover new wines, and learn from top chefs and sommeliers. Here are three must-attend outdoor food and wine festivals:
Aspen Food and Wine Festival
Known as one of the premier culinary events in the nation, the Aspen Food and Wine Festival is a paradise for food and wine lovers. Hosted in the picturesque town of Aspen, Colorado, this festival attracts renowned chefs, sommeliers, and food enthusiasts from around the world. Attendees can savor delectable bites from award-winning chefs, participate in cooking demonstrations, and attend exclusive wine tasting seminars. With the stunning Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, this festival offers a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
BottleRock Napa Valley
Combine the vibrant atmosphere of a music festival with the exquisite flavors of wine and food, and you have BottleRock Napa Valley. Located in the heart of California’s wine country, this festival brings together renowned musicians, celebrity chefs, and winemakers for a three-day extravaganza. Feast on gourmet food from some of Napa Valley’s top restaurants, sip on exceptional wines, and enjoy live performances from chart-topping artists. This festival offers the perfect fusion of music, food, and wine in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Taste of Vail
For wine enthusiasts, the Taste of Vail is a must-attend event. Held in the stunning Vail Valley of Colorado, this festival showcases the best of the region’s culinary scene. Attendees can indulge in gourmet cuisine, taste exquisite wines from local vineyards, and attend informative seminars and demonstrations led by renowned chefs and wine experts. With its breathtaking mountain views and a wide range of outdoor activities to enjoy, the Taste of Vail provides a perfect blend of culinary delights and natural beauty.
Seafood Festivals
If you’re a fan of succulent seafood, then attending a seafood festival is a must-do this summer. These festivals celebrate the ocean’s bounty by offering a variety of fresh seafood dishes, along with live music, entertainment, and fun activities. Here are three seafood festivals worth checking out:
New Orleans Oyster Festival
When it comes to seafood, there’s no place quite like New Orleans. The New Orleans Oyster Festival is a celebration of the city’s rich oyster heritage. Held in the historic French Quarter, this festival features an abundance of delicious oyster dishes, from raw oysters on the half shell to fried oyster po’ boys. You can also enjoy live music, cooking demonstrations, and shucking contests. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the festival and savor the unique flavors of New Orleans’ world-famous oysters.
Boston Seafood Festival
Known for its rich seafood traditions, Boston hosts an annual seafood festival that pays homage to the city’s maritime roots. The Boston Seafood Festival offers a wide variety of seafood delicacies, including lobster rolls, chowders, and fresh catches grilled to perfection. Alongside the delicious food, you can enjoy live entertainment, chef demonstrations, and educational activities that highlight sustainable fishing practices. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience Boston’s love affair with seafood at this delightful festival.
Key West Lobsterfest
If you find yourself in Key West during lobster season, be sure to attend the Key West Lobsterfest. This lively festival celebrates the crustacean that is synonymous with the Florida Keys – the spiny lobster. Enjoy lobster cooked in various creative ways, from traditional steamed lobster tails to Caribbean-inspired dishes. The festival also offers live music, street fairs, and a lively procession featuring costumed lobsters. Grab a lobster roll, soak up the sun, and immerse yourself in the tropical vibes of Key West at this unforgettable seafood extravaganza.
Chili Cook-Offs
If you have a penchant for spicy and flavorful dishes, attending a chili cook-off is a fantastic way to experience the best chili creations from around the world. These cook-offs bring together chili enthusiasts who compete for the title of the best chili recipe. Here are three notable chili cook-offs that you won’t want to miss:
International Chili Society World Championship
The International Chili Society World Championship is the pinnacle event for chili lovers and competitors alike. Held annually, this cook-off attracts chili cookers from all over the world who compete in various categories, including traditional red chili, chili verde, and salsa. Attendees can sample an array of chili recipes, watch the cook-off action, and even vote for their favorite chili. The festival also features live music, entertainment, and other fun activities for the whole family.
Terlingua International Chili Championship
Located in the small town of Terlingua, Texas, the Terlingua International Chili Championship is a legendary event in the chili community. This cook-off is known for its fiercely competitive atmosphere, as chili aficionados bring their secret recipes to vie for the top prize. Participants can sample a wide variety of chili, enjoy live music, and soak in the charming Texan ambiance. With its rich history and vibrant chili culture, the Terlingua International Chili Championship is a must-visit for any chili enthusiast.
CASI Terlingua International Chili Cookoff
Also held in Terlingua, the CASI (Chili Appreciation Society International) Terlingua International Chili Cookoff is a gathering of chili lovers who share a passion for this iconic Texan dish. What sets this cook-off apart is its dedication to honoring traditional chili recipes, made only with meat and chili peppers – no beans or fillers allowed. Attendees can savor chili samples, witness cooking demonstrations, and even participate in the judging process. Immerse yourself in the flavors and traditions of chili at this unique cook-off.
Grilling Competitions
Grilling competitions are the ultimate showcase of skill and creativity in outdoor cooking. Pitmasters from all over the country gather to compete and impress with their exceptional grilling techniques and flavor profiles. Here are three grilling competitions that will leave you in awe of the grill masters’ artistry:
World Food Championships
The World Food Championships is a high-stakes culinary competition that brings together the world’s best chefs and pitmasters for an intense battle of flavors. One of the categories in these championships is grilling, where participants showcase their creativity and expertise on the grill. Whether it’s perfectly grilled steaks, mouthwatering burgers, or succulent ribs, the grilling competition at the World Food Championships is a spectacle that should not be missed. The event also features live entertainment, cooking demonstrations, and tastings of various culinary delights from around the globe.
Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest
Already mentioned for its significance in the BBQ festival section, the Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest also deserves a spot in the grilling competitions. This contest encompasses the entire barbecue spectrum, from intense smoking sessions to grilling perfection. Pitmasters compete in categories such as ribs, pork shoulder, whole hog, and even the “Anything But Pork” category to showcase their grilling expertise. You’ll be able to witness incredible grilling setups and taste some of the best grilled and smoked meats in the world.
Jack Daniel’s Invitational Barbecue
Held in Lynchburg, Tennessee, the Jack Daniel’s Invitational Barbecue is an invite-only competition that brings together top teams from around the globe. The grilling competition at this prestigious event showcases the contestants’ skills in various categories, including ribs, chicken, pork, and brisket. In addition to the grilling action, attendees can enjoy live music, whiskey tastings, and explore the charming town of Lynchburg. The Jack Daniel’s Invitational Barbecue is a celebration of great food, grilling techniques, and the iconic Jack Daniel’s brand.
Farm-to-Table Dinners
For those who appreciate the beauty of local, sustainable, and fresh ingredients, farm-to-table dinners offer a truly special culinary experience. These dinners typically take place on farms or in beautiful outdoor settings, allowing attendees to enjoy a unique connection with the land and the food they’re consuming. Here are three remarkable farm-to-table dinner series worth attending:
Outstanding in the Field
Outstanding in the Field is a traveling culinary event that brings the dinner table to the source of the food – the farm. This unique dining experience takes place in various locations across the United States, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy a multi-course meal prepared by notable chefs. Surrounded by the picturesque landscapes of working farms, attendees can learn about the farmers’ practices, connect with nature, and savor a meal made from the freshest ingredients sourced directly from the land.
Farm to Fork Dinner Series
As the name suggests, the Farm to Fork Dinner Series showcases the journey from farm to plate in a series of sublime dining experiences. These events take place in different locations throughout the country and celebrate local chefs, farmers, and artisans. By dining at long communal tables set in breathtaking outdoor settings, guests connect with the food they eat, the farmers who produce it, and the culinary talent behind each dish. Indulge in seasonal dishes, sip on regional wines, and immerse yourself in the farm-to-fork movement at these unforgettable dinner series.
Dinners on the Farm
Imagine dining al fresco on a picturesque farm, surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery while enjoying the fruits of the land – that’s exactly what Dinners on the Farm offers. Held in various locations around the United States, these farm-to-table dinners take guests on a culinary journey where they can connect with nature, meet local farmers, and savor gourmet dishes made with farm-fresh ingredients. With each dinner reflecting the unique personality of the farm and the region, attending Dinners on the Farm is a truly immersive and delightful experience.
Beer and BBQ Festivals
Beer and barbecue – a match made in heaven. These festivals combine the smoky flavors of barbecue with a wide selection of craft beers, creating the perfect pairing for food and beer enthusiasts. Here are three beer and BBQ festivals that will tantalize your taste buds:
BrewMasters Craft Beer Festival
If you’re a beer lover, the BrewMasters Craft Beer Festival in Galveston, Texas, is the place to be. This three-day event is a celebration of the artistry behind craft beer brewing. Attendees can sample over 400 craft beers from around the world, attend beer tastings and seminars, and enjoy barbecue offerings from renowned pitmasters. With live music, beer-themed games, and stunning ocean views, the BrewMasters Craft Beer Festival offers a memorable experience for beer and barbecue enthusiasts alike.
Blues, Bandits & BBQ
Blues, Bandits & BBQ is an annual festival in Oak Cliff, Texas, that brings together the best barbecue, live music, and craft beer in one delightful event. With a focus on supporting local barbecue talent, this festival showcases the skills of pitmasters from across Texas. Attendees can savor mouthwatering barbecue, enjoy performances by top local bands, and sample a wide variety of craft beers. The festival also features barbecue competitions and a family-friendly area with entertainment for children. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Blues, Bandits & BBQ and indulge in the perfect trifecta of music, food, and beer.
San Diego Oktoberfest
While Oktoberfest is traditionally associated with beer and German cuisine, the San Diego Oktoberfest adds a flavorful twist by combining German-style beers with Southern California’s vibrant barbecue scene. Held in Mission Valley, this festival offers an authentic Oktoberfest experience with lively oompah music, beer tastings, and a variety of traditional German dishes. But what sets this Oktoberfest apart is the addition of a BBQ stage where local pitmasters showcase their grilling skills and serve up mouthwatering barbecue delights. Grab a stein of beer, indulge in German and barbecue cuisine, and join in the festive atmosphere of the San Diego Oktoberfest.
Outdoor Cooking Workshops
For those looking to enhance their outdoor cooking skills, attending outdoor cooking workshops provides a fun and educational experience. Led by renowned chefs and seasoned grillers, these workshops offer hands-on learning opportunities and valuable insights into the art of outdoor cooking. Here are three workshops that will ignite your passion for culinary excellence:
Steven Raichlen’s Barbecue University
Steven Raichlen is a renowned grilling authority, and his Barbecue University is a mecca for barbecue enthusiasts looking to learn from the best. Held in various locations, including Colorado and California, these intensive three-day workshops cover a wide range of grilling techniques and recipes. Participants get hands-on experience, learning how to grill everything from steaks and ribs to seafood and vegetables. With personalized instruction from Steven Raichlen himself, Barbecue University is a must-attend for those looking to take their grilling skills to the next level.
Big Green Egg Culinary Center Classes
For those familiar with the Kamado-style grill known as the Big Green Egg, the Big Green Egg Culinary Center offers a variety of cooking classes to help grillers maximize their kitchen skills. Located in Atlanta, Georgia, this culinary center hosts workshops that cover a range of techniques, from smoking and roasting to baking and grilling. Under the guidance of experienced chefs, participants learn how to create delicious meals using the iconic Big Green Egg and gain a deeper understanding of this versatile grill.
Weber Grill Academy
As one of the most trusted names in outdoor grilling, Weber offers cooking workshops through their Grill Academy. Located in various cities across the United States, these workshops provide hands-on training with Weber grills, allowing participants to learn grilling techniques and recipes from expert grillmasters. From grilling the perfect steak to smoking tender ribs, these workshops cover a variety of skills and dishes. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned griller, the Weber Grill Academy offers valuable insights and tips to help you become a master of the grill.
Regional Food Festivals
Every region has its own distinctive flavors and culinary traditions, and regional food festivals are the perfect way to explore and celebrate these unique gastronomic delights. From garlic festivals in California to lobster festivals in Maine, here are three regional food festivals that showcase the best of their respective cuisines:
Gilroy Garlic Festival (California)
If you’re a garlic lover, the Gilroy Garlic Festival in California is a dream come true. Known as the “Garlic Capital of the World,” Gilroy hosts this festival to celebrate all things garlic. You’ll find garlic-infused dishes from savory to sweet, including garlic ice cream – a surprisingly delicious treat. Attendees can enjoy cooking demonstrations, live entertainment, and even participate in a garlic-themed cooking contest. Indulge in the pungent flavors of garlic and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this unique festival.
Maine Lobster Festival
Maine is famous for its succulent lobsters, and the Maine Lobster Festival is the ultimate celebration of this iconic seafood. Held in Rockland, this festival offers a plethora of fresh lobster dishes, from classic lobster rolls to lobster bisque. In addition to indulging in delicious lobster, attendees can also enjoy live entertainment, participate in cooking contests, and even take part in a lobster crate race. Immerse yourself in the lobster culture of Maine, savor the sweet meat, and enjoy the picturesque coastal scenery.
Deep Pit Barbecue Festival (Hawaii)
The Deep Pit Barbecue Festival in Hawaii is a celebration of the island’s distinctive cooking style known as “imu.” This traditional cooking method involves preparing food in an underground oven, resulting in succulent and flavorful dishes. At the festival, you can taste imu-cooked dishes, such as Hawaiian-style pork, taro leaves, and sweet potatoes. Enjoy live music, cultural performances, and immerse yourself in the laid-back island vibes of Hawaii at this unique food festival.
Attending outdoor cooking events allows you to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of culinary delights that our world has to offer. Whether you’re a barbecue enthusiast, a food truck lover, or a fan of gourmet farm-to-table experiences, there’s an event for everyone. So mark these top 10 outdoor cooking events on your calendar and get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey filled with delectable dishes, cultural experiences, and unforgettable memories.