Get ready for a mouthwatering journey into the world of Texas barbecue at the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest! This annual festival brings together the finest barbecue joints from across the Lone Star State, offering a tantalizing array of smoked meats, savory sides, and refreshing beverages.
Held in the heart of Austin, Texas, the festival is a celebration of Texas' rich barbecue culture. With over 200 vendors participating, there's something for every barbecue enthusiast to enjoy. From classic brisket and ribs to more unique offerings like smoked turkey and jalapeno sausage, the festival offers a diverse selection of barbecue styles and flavors.
With so much barbecue to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here's a guide to help you navigate the festival and make the most of your experience:
texas monthly bbq fest
Texas' premier barbecue festival, held annually in Austin.
- 200+ vendors
- Wide variety of barbecue styles
- Live music and entertainment
- Kids' activities
- Craft beer and cocktails
- Cooking demonstrations
- Educational seminars
- Family-friendly atmosphere
With so much to see, do, and taste, the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is a must-visit event for any barbecue lover.
200+ vendors
One of the highlights of the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is the massive gathering of over 200 vendors, each representing the best of Texas barbecue. These vendors come from all corners of the state, bringing with them their unique styles, recipes, and traditions.
From the legendary barbecue joints of Central Texas to the up-and-coming smokehouses of Houston and Dallas, the festival offers a comprehensive showcase of Texas barbecue. You'll find everything from classic brisket and ribs to more creative offerings like smoked turkey, jalapeno sausage, and even barbecue desserts.
The vendors at the festival are passionate about their craft, and they take great pride in serving up delicious and authentic barbecue. They use only the finest meats and freshest ingredients, and they cook their food low and slow over wood fires, resulting in tender, flavorful barbecue that will tantalize your taste buds.
In addition to the barbecue, the vendors also offer a variety of sides, such as potato salad, coleslaw, beans, and mac and cheese. You'll also find a selection of craft beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages to wash down all that delicious barbecue.
With so many vendors to choose from, it's impossible to try everything in one day. But that's part of the fun! The Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is a great opportunity to sample a wide variety of barbecue styles and flavors, and to discover new favorites.
Wide variety of barbecue styles
Texas is known for its diverse barbecue culture, and the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is a testament to that diversity. At the festival, you'll find a wide range of barbecue styles, each with its own unique flavor profile and cooking techniques.
The most popular barbecue style in Texas is Central Texas barbecue, which is characterized by its use of simple rubs and a focus on the quality of the meat. Central Texas barbecue joints typically smoke their meats over post oak wood, which imparts a subtle, smoky flavor.
Other popular barbecue styles at the festival include East Texas barbecue, which is known for its use of sweet and tangy sauces, and South Texas barbecue, which is influenced by Mexican flavors. You'll also find barbecue from other regions of the state, such as the Gulf Coast and West Texas.
In addition to the traditional barbecue styles, the festival also features a number of creative and innovative barbecue offerings. Some vendors experiment with different types of meat, such as alligator or venison, while others put a unique twist on classic barbecue dishes. You might find brisket tacos, smoked turkey legs, or even barbecue ice cream.
With so many different barbecue styles to choose from, the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is a great place to explore the diversity of Texas barbecue and to discover new favorites.
Live music and entertainment
In addition to the delicious barbecue, the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest also features a variety of live music and entertainment. The festival has multiple stages hosting a diverse lineup of musicians, from local and regional acts to national and international stars.
The music at the festival is as diverse as the barbecue, with something for everyone to enjoy. You'll find everything from country and blues to rock and pop. There's also a children's stage with music and activities specifically for kids.
In addition to the music, the festival also offers a variety of other entertainment options. There are cooking demonstrations and seminars, where you can learn more about barbecue and other culinary topics. There are also games and activities for kids, as well as a petting zoo and a mechanical bull.
The live music and entertainment at the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest help to create a festive and lively atmosphere. It's a great place to relax and enjoy a day of barbecue, music, and fun with friends and family.
Here are some of the musical acts that have performed at the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest in recent years:
- Willie Nelson
- George Strait
- Gary Clark Jr.
- Sturgill Simpson
- The Avett Brothers
- Los Lobos
- Asleep at the Wheel
- Lyle Lovett
Kids' activities
The Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is a family-friendly event, and there are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained throughout the day. The festival has a dedicated Kids' Zone with a variety of rides, games, and activities.
Some of the popular kids' activities at the festival include:
- A petting zoo, where kids can interact with friendly farm animals.
- A mechanical bull, where kids can test their riding skills.
- A rock climbing wall, where kids can challenge themselves to new heights.
- A bounce house, where kids can jump and play to their heart's content.
- A face painting booth, where kids can get creative and have their faces transformed into animals, superheroes, or other fun designs.
In addition to the Kids' Zone, there are also a number of other activities that kids will enjoy throughout the festival. They can watch cooking demonstrations, learn about barbecue from experts, and even try their hand at making their own barbecue. There's also a children's stage with music and activities specifically for kids.
With so many fun and engaging activities to choose from, kids of all ages are sure to have a blast at the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest.
Here are some tips for making the most of the Kids' Zone at the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest:
- Arrive early to avoid long lines for the rides and activities.
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and water to keep your kids cool and hydrated.
- Let your kids explore the Kids' Zone at their own pace. There's no need to rush them from one activity to the next.
- Take breaks throughout the day to rest and refuel. There are plenty of food and drink options available at the festival.
- Most importantly, have fun! The Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is a great opportunity to spend quality time with your family and create lasting memories.
Craft beer and cocktails
No barbecue festival would be complete without a selection of refreshing beverages, and the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest has plenty to offer. In addition to the usual sodas and water, the festival features a wide variety of craft beers and cocktails.
The craft beer selection at the festival includes a mix of local and regional breweries, as well as some national and international favorites. You'll find everything from light and refreshing pilsners to hoppy IPAs and rich stouts. There's sure to be a beer to pair perfectly with any barbecue dish you choose.
The festival also offers a variety of cocktails, both classic and creative. You can enjoy a refreshing margarita, a spicy Bloody Mary, or a unique cocktail made with Texas whiskey or tequila. There are also a number of non-alcoholic beverages available, such as fresh lemonade, iced tea, and root beer.
Whether you're a beer lover, a cocktail enthusiast, or just looking for something to quench your thirst, you're sure to find something to your taste at the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest.
Here are some of the craft breweries and cocktail bars that have been featured at the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest in recent years:
- Austin Beerworks
- Jester King Brewery
- Live Oak Brewing Company
- Real Ale Brewing Company
- Shiner Beer
- Tito's Handmade Vodka
- Deep Eddy Vodka
- Lone Star Cocktails
Cooking demonstrations
The Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is a great place to learn more about barbecue and other culinary topics. The festival features a variety of cooking demonstrations, where experts share their tips and techniques for creating delicious food.
- How to cook the perfect brisket
In this demonstration, a barbecue pitmaster will show you how to select the best brisket, trim it properly, and cook it low and slow to achieve tender, juicy results.
- Making your own barbecue sauce
Learn how to make your own barbecue sauce from scratch, using a variety of ingredients and techniques. You'll be able to customize your sauce to your own taste preferences.
- Smoking vegetables
Vegetables can be just as delicious as meat when smoked. In this demonstration, you'll learn how to smoke vegetables to perfection, using different types of wood and smoking techniques.
- Creative barbecue dishes
Barbecue isn't just about brisket and ribs. In this demonstration, a chef will show you how to use barbecue techniques to create unique and innovative dishes, such as smoked salmon, barbecue pizza, and even barbecue desserts.
The cooking demonstrations at the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest are a great opportunity to learn from the experts and improve your own culinary skills. You'll also get to sample delicious food and drinks from a variety of vendors.
Educational seminars
In addition to the cooking demonstrations, the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest also offers a variety of educational seminars. These seminars cover a wide range of topics, from the history of barbecue to the science of smoking meat. They're a great opportunity to learn more about barbecue and to improve your own grilling and smoking skills.
Some of the educational seminars that have been offered at the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest in recent years include:
- The history of Texas barbecue
This seminar will explore the origins of Texas barbecue and how it has evolved over time. You'll learn about the different barbecue styles and traditions of Texas, and how they've been influenced by the state's diverse culture.
- The science of smoking meat
This seminar will teach you the basics of smoking meat, including how to choose the right wood, how to control the temperature, and how to achieve the perfect smoke flavor. You'll also learn about the different types of smokers and how to use them properly.
- Barbecue judging techniques
This seminar will teach you how to judge barbecue like a pro. You'll learn about the different criteria that judges use to evaluate barbecue, and you'll get hands-on experience judging actual barbecue dishes.
- The business of barbecue
This seminar will provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to start your own barbecue business. You'll learn about the different types of barbecue businesses, how to develop a business plan, and how to market your business to customers.
The educational seminars at the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest are a great opportunity to learn more about barbecue and to improve your own grilling and smoking skills. They're also a great way to network with other barbecue enthusiasts and to learn about the latest trends in the barbecue industry.
Family-friendly atmosphere
The Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is a family-friendly event, with plenty of activities and attractions for kids of all ages. In addition to the Kids' Zone, there are a number of other activities that families can enjoy together.
Some of the family-friendly activities at the festival include:
- Live music and entertainment
The festival features a variety of live music and entertainment, including music from local and regional bands, as well as children's performers and activities.
- Cooking demonstrations and seminars
The festival offers a variety of cooking demonstrations and seminars, where families can learn more about barbecue and other culinary topics. Many of the demonstrations and seminars are geared towards kids, with simple recipes and fun activities.
- Games and activities
The festival has a variety of games and activities for kids, such as face painting, balloon animals, and a petting zoo. There are also a number of rides and attractions, such as a Ferris wheel and a carousel.
- Picnic areas
The festival has a number of picnic areas, where families can relax and enjoy their food. There are also a number of food vendors selling a variety of delicious barbecue and other foods.
The Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is a great place for families to spend a day together and enjoy all that the festival has to offer. With its wide variety of activities and attractions, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
FAQ
Have questions about the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest? Here are some frequently asked questions and answers:
Question 1: What are the dates and times of the festival?
Answer 1: The Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is typically held in October, over a three-day weekend. The festival is open from 11am to 10pm on Friday and Saturday, and from 11am to 6pm on Sunday.
Question 2: How much are tickets?
Answer 2: Ticket prices vary depending on the day and time of attendance. General admission tickets start at $20 for adults and $10 for children ages 6-12. VIP tickets are also available, which include access to a private lounge, complimentary food and drinks, and other perks.
Question 3: What kind of barbecue can I expect to find at the festival?
Answer 3: The festival features a wide variety of barbecue styles from all over Texas, including Central Texas barbecue, East Texas barbecue, South Texas barbecue, and more. You'll find everything from classic brisket and ribs to more unique offerings like smoked turkey, jalapeno sausage, and even barbecue desserts.
Question 4: Are there vegetarian and vegan options available?
Answer 4: Yes, there are a number of vegetarian and vegan options available at the festival. Many of the vendors offer sides and desserts that are suitable for vegetarians and vegans, and there are also a few vendors that specialize in vegetarian and vegan barbecue.
Question 5: Is the festival family-friendly?
Answer 5: Yes, the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is a family-friendly event. There are a number of activities and attractions for kids of all ages, including a Kids' Zone with rides, games, and activities. There are also a number of family-friendly cooking demonstrations and seminars.
Question 6: Are pets allowed at the festival?
Answer 6: Pets are not allowed at the festival, with the exception of service animals.
Question 7: Can I bring my own food and drinks into the festival?
Answer 7: No, outside food and drinks are not allowed into the festival. There are a variety of food and drink vendors at the festival, so you'll be able to find something to your taste.
We hope this FAQ has answered your questions about the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest. If you have any other questions, please visit the festival's website or contact the festival organizers.
Now that you know all about the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience at the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest:
Tip 1: Arrive early
The festival gets very crowded, especially on Saturday and Sunday. If you want to avoid long lines, arrive early in the day. This will give you more time to explore the festival and sample all the delicious barbecue.
Tip 2: Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking at the festival, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes. You'll also be standing in line for food and drinks, so shoes with good support are a good idea.
Tip 3: Bring a cooler
If you're planning on bringing food and drinks into the festival, bring a cooler to keep them cold. There are a number of picnic areas at the festival where you can relax and enjoy your food.
Tip 4: Pace yourself
There's a lot of delicious barbecue to sample at the festival, but it's important to pace yourself. Don't try to eat everything in one day. Take your time and savor each bite.
With a little planning, you can have a great time at the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest. Just remember to arrive early, wear comfortable shoes, bring a cooler, and pace yourself.
So what are you waiting for? Get your tickets today and start planning your trip to the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest!
Conclusion
The Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is a celebration of Texas' rich barbecue culture. With over 200 vendors, a wide variety of barbecue styles, live music and entertainment, kids' activities, and more, the festival has something for everyone. Whether you're a barbecue enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, you're sure to have a great time at the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest.
Here are some of the main points to remember about the festival:
- The festival is held annually in Austin, Texas.
- It features over 200 barbecue vendors from all over the state.
- There is a wide variety of barbecue styles to choose from, including Central Texas barbecue, East Texas barbecue, and South Texas barbecue.
- The festival also features live music and entertainment, kids' activities, cooking demonstrations, and educational seminars.
- The festival is family-friendly and offers a variety of food and drink options, including vegetarian and vegan options.
If you're looking for a fun and delicious way to experience Texas barbecue, the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is the perfect place to go. With its wide variety of barbecue styles, live music and entertainment, and family-friendly atmosphere, the festival is sure to be a memorable experience.
So mark your calendars and get ready for the next Texas Monthly BBQ Fest. You won't want to miss it!