California’s BBQ season typically runs from late spring to early fall, with most events taking place from May through September. The state hosts several BBQ competitions and festivals throughout the season, showcasing various regional styles and flavors.
One of the most popular BBQ competitions in California is the Santa Anita Park BBQ Festival and Competition, held in Arcadia every May. The event features live music, a BBQ competition, and various food vendors serving up delicious BBQ dishes.
Other notable BBQ competitions in California include the West Coast BBQ Classic in Long Beach, the Annual Oxnard Salsa Festival, and the Central Coast Pro BBQ Competition in Pismo Beach. These events feature live music, food vendors, and various activities, along with the BBQ competitions.
California’s BBQ scene is diverse and influenced by a variety of regional and international flavors. Popular dishes include brisket, pulled pork, ribs, smoked chicken, and tri-tip, as well as California-style BBQ dishes like smoked fish and avocado.
| April 17, 2023: Spring BBQ Cook Off – Torrance, CA |
| Apr. 22, 2023: Blues, Brews, & BBQ, Fairfield, CA. Contact: Juanita Johnson, Email: jjohnson@faitfield.ca.gov. |
| Apr. 28-29, 2023: BBQ, Boots & Brew, Perris, CA. Contact: Sarah Harty, Phone: 951-895-7546. |
| April 29, 2023: Lodi Beer Fest & State BBQ Championship – Lodi, CA |
| May 5-6, 2023: Solano Steak Out Cookoff Duuble, Dixon, CA. Contact: Tim Anderson, Phone: 707-474-8448. |
| May 20, 2023: Hoedown for Hope 2023 – BBQ and Music Festival – Santa Clara, CA |
| May 25, 2023: 4th Annual IBEW Socal BBQ and Chili Cookoff – San Diego, CA |
| May 26-27, 2023: Big Bear Grill & Chill BBQ Championships, Big Bear Lake, CA. Contact: Robert Stouffer, Phone: 951-961-8870. |
| May 27-28, 2023: Barbecue and Brews Festival – Stockton, CA |
| May 27-29, 2023: Big Bear Lake Grill & Chill KCBS BBQ State Competition – Big Bear Lake, CA |
| Jun. 2-3, 2023: Horse Town Brew N Que Festival, Norco, CA. Contact: Debbie Yopp, Phone: 951-444-1280. |
| June 17-18, 2023: King Of The County BBQ Challenge & Music Festival – Martinez, CA |
