Georgia’s BBQ scene is influenced by a variety of regional and international flavors, making it a diverse and unique BBQ destination. The state is particularly known for its Southern-style BBQ, which features slow-smoked meats and a variety of tangy and sweet sauces.
Georgia’s BBQ typically includes popular dishes like pulled pork, ribs, brisket, smoked chicken, and sausage. One notable Georgia-style BBQ dish is Brunswick stew, a hearty stew made with smoked meats, vegetables, and a variety of spices.
Georgia’s BBQ is also influenced by its proximity to the Carolinas and other BBQ hotspots, as well as by the state’s unique regional flavors and ingredients. Some popular Georgia-style BBQ sauces include mustard-based sauces, vinegar-based sauces, and sweet tomato-based sauces.
Georgia is home to several notable BBQ restaurants and festivals, including the Big Pig Jig in Vienna, the Atlanta BBQ Festival, and the Helen Back BBQ Festival in Helen. These events showcase a variety of regional and international BBQ styles, along with live music, food vendors, and various activities.
| March 3-4, 2023: Sip & Swine BBQ Festival – Coolray Field, GA |
| Mar. 24-25, 2023: Fire Ant Festival BBQ Bash, Ashburn, GA. Contact: Gail Walla, Phone: 229-567-3436, Email: ggwalls@windstream.net. |
| Mar. 31 – Apr. 1, 2023: Swampfest, Waycross, GA. Contact: Derek Johnson, Phone: 912-253-7528, Email: tdlively@hotmail.com. |
| Apr. 21-22, 2023: Smokin on Blackshear, Cordele, GA. Contact: Linda Hawkins, Phone: 229-276-1004, Email: lhawkins@lakeblackshearresort.com. |
| Apr. 28-29, 2023: Southern Brewing First Responder BBQ Contest, Athens, GA. Contact: Michael Roberts, Phone: 404-997-1592, Email: mrpoweld@gmail.com. |
| Apr. 29, 2023: Moose Is Loose (DOUBLE), McDonough, GA. |
| Apr. 29, 2023: Kids Burger – Moose Is Loose (DOUBLE), McDonough, GA. |
| May 12-13, 2023: Smoke On The Lake, Acworth, GA. Contact: Dane Schwickerath, Phone: 678-414-0430, Email: daveschwick@gmail.com. |
| May 26-27, 2023: Maysville Memorial Day Bash, Maysville, GA. Contact: Kim Wilmoth, Phone: 404-281-4928, Email: wilmoth.kimdrew@gmail.com. |
| Jun. 9-10, 2023: 3 Rivers BBQ Fest, Hazelhurst, GA. Contact: Jim Sewell, Phone: 912-209-8805. |
| Jun. 16-17, 2023: Lake Oconee, Greensboro, GA. Contact: John Padjen, Phone: 970-485-2391, Email: jp10jp10@gmail.com. |
| Sept. 8-9, 2023: Doc Holliday BBQ Championship, Griffin, GA. Contact: Will Doss, Phone: 770-228-4699, Email: will@eagleswaychurch.org. |
| Oct. 13-14, 2023: Firehouse BBQ Cookoff, Donalsonville, GA. Contact: Tori Gravilee, Phone: 229-416-5929, Email: tgravilee35@yahoo.com. |
| Oct. 20-21, 2023: Modern Gas Rib Showdown 2023, Albany, GA. Contact: Mandy Kavanaugh, Phone: 229-894-2556, Email: tgravilee35@yahoo.com. |
| Oct. 27-28, 2023: Red, White & Blue BBQ, Canton, GA. Contact: Jim Lindenmayer, Phone: 678-983-7590. |
