WASHINGTON, D.C. — The 34th Annual Giant Barbecue Battle will return to Pennsylvania Avenue on June 27-28, featuring barbecue competitions, live music, celebrity chefs, and international food exhibitions as part of the nation’s America 250 celebrations.
Organizers said the event, recognized by Congress as the “Official National BBQ Championship,” is expected to draw more than 100,000 attendees during the two-day festival.
Giant Food said this year’s event also coincides with the grocery chain’s 90th anniversary.
The 2026 festival theme, “American Cuisine Is World Cuisine,” will highlight culinary traditions from nearly 20 countries through embassy and international food brand participation at the World of Flavors Sampling Pavilion.
Participating countries and cuisines include offerings from Peru, Mexico, Venezuela, Guatemala, Canada, and Japan, according to organizers.
The event will also feature competitive barbecue events sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society, along with contests sponsored by Kingsford, Smithfield, and Nathan’s Famous.
Competitive eater Miki Sudo is scheduled to participate in the Nathan’s World-Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest after setting the women’s contest record with 51 hot dogs in 2024.
Organizers said more than $50,000 in prize money will be awarded to competing pitmasters.
The festival will include performances across six entertainment stages featuring rock, reggae, salsa, R&B, and Washington’s go-go music scene. Cooking demonstrations and family programming are also planned throughout the weekend.
Sports activations are expected from Washington professional sports franchises including the Wizards, Mystics, Capitals, Washington Spirit, D.C. United, and Capital City Go-Go.
Additional attractions include Restaurant Row, beverage tastings, the Art to Go-Go Village, and “51 Steps to Freedom,” an augmented reality installation focused on American history.
The event will take place along Pennsylvania Avenue NW between Third and Seventh streets.
Festival hours are scheduled for 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, June 27, and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, June 28.
Tickets and additional information are available at Giant Barbecue Battle.
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