The annual festival is back for seconds in the Barbecue Capital of Texas during the first weekend of November.
THANK YOU, LOCKHART! We’re filled with gratitude for each and every one of you that made 2023 a BBQ Fest for the books. Stay tuned for 2024 details—coming soon!
To see photos from this year’s event, visit our Flickr page.
Texas Monthly is excited to bring TM BBQ Fest benefiting Feeding Texas back to Lockhart during the first weekend of November. The historical downtown will create the backdrop for the second annual BBQ World’s Fair on Saturday, November 4, and the Top 50 Picnic will return to Lockhart City Park on Sunday, November 5.
Tickets are on sale now! While VIP and Weekend Bundles are sold out, GA TICKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE! Unlike last year, there will only be one ticket release date. Once a tier sells out, the next one will immediately open until all tickets are sold out. Please refer to the ticket graphic below for pricing.
Click on the image above to view the 2023 festival map.
Texas Monthly is pleased to continue a partnership with Feeding Texas and support the unified effort for a hunger-free Texas. A portion of all ticket proceeds will be donated to Feeding Texas and the network of food banks across the state. Additional contributions can be made on the Feeding Texas website.
Looking for more ways to get involved with TM BBQ Fest? Click here and apply to be a volunteer at this year’s event!
Kick off the weekend and celebrate the big, wide world of ’cue with this open-to-the-public street festival. Check out barbecue and taco vendors, an artisan marketplace, live-fire cooking demos, and a live music stage! Featured joints will showcase creative flavors, plus a curated Taco Trail lineup. Event is free to attend. Food and drink will be available for purchase. Barbecue joints will serve lunch to the public from 12–4 p.m.Taco Trail is open for public sales during the entire event. Come eat and explore everything the Texas ’cue-munity has to offer!
Want a more exclusive experience? Starting at 5 p.m., barbecue joints will switch to an exclusive menu for attendees who have purchased an “Around the World” Punch Card. Punch card–holders will have access to the BBQ World’s Fair barbecue joints and special signature menu items. Punch cards are sold out at this time.
GENERAL ADMISSION: The BBQ World’s Fair is FREE and open to the public. No ticket required! Feel free to submit a FREE RSVP by pressing the “Get Tickets” button at the top of this page, but please note that a physical ticket is not required to enter the event.
(SOLD OUT) “AROUND THE WORLD” PUNCH CARD: Wind down the day with signature bites from each of the featured barbecue joints. For $55, guests can buy a punch card to enjoy exclusive access to tastings from 5–7 p.m.
(SOLD OUT) WEEKEND BUNDLES: Save $10 when you bundle a ticket to Sunday’s Top 50 Picnic with a punch card for Saturday’s BBQ World’s Fair. See the above chart for prices.
LIVE MUSIC: Enjoy live music and entertainment throughout the day from the 78644 Podcast, RF Shannon, Rattlesnake Milk, and Tomar & The FCs.
VENDORS: Vendor applications are now closed. Applicants will be notified about the status of their application in the coming weeks. For a full list of featured barbecue joints, click here!
UPDATES: Follow thisevent on Facebook for real-time updates, including lineup of food, music, and more.
This is the event everyone knows and loves—a Sunday afternoon with live music from Hard Proof and a special guest, beverages, and forty of theTop 50 BBQ Joints in Texas. There are two ticket levels, VIP and General Admission (GA). VIP is limited in quantity, and VIP ticket holders get entry to the event an hour before GA. See the above chart for prices.
GENERAL ADMISSION: Doors for GA open at 1 p.m. GA tickets start at $95 and include food at all the featured joints. Tickets are on sale now!
(SOLD OUT) VIP ADMISSION: Doors for VIP open at noon. VIP tickets start at $125 and include food at all the featured joints, plus an extra hour of VIP access, meaning fewer lines! VIP tickets also include two (2) drink tickets. Quantity is limited and is expected to sell out. Early bird tickets go on sale June 1.
(SOLD OUT) WEEKEND BUNDLES: Save $10 when you bundle a ticket to Sunday’s Top 50 Picnic with an “Around the World” Punch Card for Saturday’s BBQ World’s Fair.
UPDATES: Follow this event on Facebook for real-time updates, including lineup of food, music, and more.
12-4 p.m.
Partnerships
All food vendors at the festival are curated by Texas Monthly editors. Our event team accepts applications for marketplace vendors for Saturday’s BBQ World’s Fair. For details on how selections are made or how to apply, click here. Deadline is July 31.
Sponsorship activation opportunities are also available.For more information on opportunities, please email jlevigarza@texasmonthly.com.
What is Texas Monthly BBQ Fest benefiting Feeding Texas?
Held annually since 2010, Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is the state’s premier barbecue celebration. The two-day festival in Lockhart is comprised of the BBQ World’s Fair on Saturday, November 4, and the Top 50 Picnic on Sunday, November 5.
Feeding Texas is the official beneficiary of the festival, leading the unified effort for a hunger-free Texas. TM BBQ Fest will direct donations through ticket sales and other means to support Feeding Texas and the network of food banks across the state. Click here to donate!
Will Daniel Vaughn be at TM BBQ Fest?
Yes! Don’t miss your opportunity to mingle with the TM barbecue editor.
What happens if it rains during TM BBQ Fest?
All events are rain or shine! Check out Texas Monthly BBQ Fest on Facebook for up-to-the-minute updates about the event.
Can I volunteer at TM BBQ Fest?
Yes! We love our volunteers that help our event to run smoothly year after year. If you’re interested in volunteering at TM BBQ Fest 2023, please submit an application form.
What can I expect in terms of road closures?
We are working to provide information about road closures as soon as we receive confirmation from Lockhart city officials. Check back soon for more information.
Are dogs/pets allowed at the TM BBQ Fest?
No. At all related events, only service dogs will be allowed on the property.
Are TM BBQ Fest events kid-friendly?
Both the BBQ World’s Fair and Top 50 Picnic in Lockhart are family-friendly! See Ticketing FAQs for info about ticket prices for kids.
I'm a TM BBQ Club Member. What special perks do I get?
We love our TM BBQ Club members! Our tried and true BBQ Freaks will have have access to specialty prizes and games all weekend long. Just look for the TM BBQ Club tent! On Sunday, at the Top 50 Picnic, we’re excited to bring back CLUB BBQ—our members-only bar and lounge located right behind the TM BBQ Club tent.
What's the best way to get to TM BBQ Fest?
Looking for a quick and reliable route to the festival? Take State Highway 130 north from Seguin or south from Austin for the fastest way to Lockhart.
Will the TM BBQ Fest events be wheelchair-accessible?
Yes! We will have ADA-accessible parking, but please note that the Top 50 Picnic takes place on natural grass and uneven ground. If you have any questions or would like any information on ADA access and accommodations, please email [email-hidden].
Can I smoke at the TM BBQ Fest events?
No. The only smoking going on will be in the BBQ pits. Smoking will not be permitted on the grounds.
Will there be medical staff on site?
There will be public and private security, as well as medical staff on site for the duration of the event. If you need any assistance, go to the medical tent or locate the closest security guard or BBQ Fest Staff member.
How do I get press credentials to cover the event?
Press credentials are distributed on a case-by-case basis. Please submit a press pass application form by September 29, 2023 to be considered.
The BBQ World’s Fair will be held on Saturday, November 4, from 12-7 p.m.
Where is the BBQ World’s Fair?
The BBQ World’s Fair will take place on the streets of downtown Lockhart, in front of the Caldwell County courthouse.
What is the BBQ World’s Fair?
The BBQ World’s Fair is a day of barbecue celebration, part of Texas Monthly BBQ Fest. There will be barbecue joints, taquerias, beverages, live music, demonstrations, and a marketplace with vendors. The event will take place on Saturday, November 4, and is free and open to the public. Around the World punch cards can be purchased for exclusive access to signature bites from each of the featured barbecue joints from 5-7 p.m.
Do I need a ticket to attend the BBQ World’s Fair?
No. The event will be free and open the public. Food, beverages, and market items will require purchase. Around the World punch cards can be purchased for exclusive access to signature bites from each of the featured barbecue joints from 5-7 p.m.
Will I need a cash or debit/credit card at the BBQ World’s Fair?
Yes. Food, beverages, and market items will require purchase.
What barbecue joints will be featured at the BBQ World's Fair?
The Taco Trail at TM BBQ Fest is a portion of the festival dedicated to celebrating the beautiful intersection of tacos and barbecue. This year’s lineup, curated by taco editor José Ralat, can be found here.
Where should I park when I arrive?
Because of street closures, there will be limited parking in downtown Lockhart. There will be shuttle parking available at Lockhart High School. The shuttles will run from 10am to 9pm on Saturday, November 4.
What musical acts will be performing at the BBQ World's Fair this year?
This year’s music lineup was curated in collaboration with 78644 Podcast. Festival goers will enjoy live music and entertainment from RF Shannon, Rattlesnake Milk, Tomar & The FCs, and the hosts of 78644 Podcast. Plus, some surprise guests!
How do I become a vendor at the BBQ World’s Fair?
Food vendors are curated by Texas Monthly editors. Marketplace vendors are open to application—however, the application period for 2023 has passed.
How do I become a featured BBQ joint or taco vendor at the BBQ World’s Fair?
Food vendors at the BBQ World’s Fair are invite-only. If you’d like to be considered, please reach out to us at [email-hidden].
What is being done to improve the BBQ World’s Fair from last year?
We are increasing staff and directional signage to help improve communications, as well as increasing the amount of barbecue at the event. We’ve also restructured the Punch Card timing and quantities to better accommodate demand and crowds.
The Top 50 Picnic will be held on Sunday, November 5, from 12-4 p.m. *Note: Daylight Saving Time begins at 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 5. Remember to set your clocks back.*
Where is the Top 50 Picnic?
The Top 50 Picnic will take place at Lockhart City Park, at 504 City Park Rd, Lockhart, TX 78644.
What is the Top 50 Picnic?
The Top 50 Picnic has been at the center of Texas Monthly BBQ Fest for over a decade. The event invites thirty-plus barbecue joints from across the state, all featured on Texas Monthly’s Top 50 BBQ List. Attendees enjoy barbecue, sides, beverages, and live music.
Do I need a ticket to attend the Top 50 Picnic?
Yes. Tickets are sold as Kids, General Admission, VIP Admission, or Weekend Bundle. Get your tickets early, because prices increase over time, and VIP tickets always sell out. See Ticketing FAQs for more details.
What barbecue joints will be featured at the Top 50 Picnic?
What musical acts will be performing at the Top 50 Picnic?
This year’s music lineup was curated in collaboration with 78644 Podcast. Top 50 Picnic attendees will enjoy live music and entertainment from Hard Proof and a special guest.
While VIP and Weekend Bundles are sold out, GA TICKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE! Press the “Get Tickets” button at the top of this page to get yours today!
When do tickets go on sale?
Early bird ticket are sold out at this time. Regular sale begins at 12 p.m. CT on Friday, July 7, 2023.
Is there a limit on the amount of tickets a TM BBQ Club member can purchase during the early-bird ticket release?
Each TM BBQ Club member will have the opportunity to purchase up to four (4) tickets. Please keep in mind that there are a limited number of early-bird tickets available, so we ask that you only take the tickets you need. If you’d like to purchase more than four tickets, you will have another opportunity when tickets go on sale to the general public on July 7.
How do I purchase tickets?
Tickets will become available right here on this page beginning July 7 at 12 p.m. CT. Please note that tickets will not be sold through Eventbrite as they have been in previous years.
BBQ Fest: Top 50 Picnic, Kids (Ages 6–10*): $40, see price schedule
BBQ Fest: Top 50 Picnic, GA (Ages 11+): Starting at $95, see price schedule
BBQ Fest: Top 50 Picnic, VIP Wristband (Ages 11+): Starting at $125, see price schedule
*Admittance for children under 6 is free
BBQ Fest: Weekend Bundle, GA (Ages 11+): Starting at $135, see price schedule
BBQ Fest: Weekend Bundle, VIP (Ages 11+): Starting at $165, see price schedule
What is the ticket price schedule?
See the image below:
Is there a discount for children?
The BBQ World’s Fair on Saturday, November 4, has free admission, but if you wish to buy an “Around the World” Punch Card for your child, there is no discount. The Top 50 Picnic on Sunday, November 5, has free admission for children under age 6, but please feel free to reserve a kids ticket in case of a sellout. Tickets for children ages 6–10 have discounted rates. See above for ticket prices.
How do I purchase a Kids ticket?
Kids tickets are available for purchase under the “Top 50 Picnic – GA” ticket category. Kids will be permitted to enter the festival early alongside a VIP or VIP Weekend Bundle ticket-holding adult.
What is included with the purchase of an ”Around the World” Punch Card for the BBQ World‘s Fair on Saturday, November 4?
“Around the World” Punch Card holders will have exclusive access to samples from all ten featured barbecue joints between 5 and 7 p.m. on Saturday, November 4. Outside of this time frame, the punch card will not apply, and food and drink will be available for purchase. Bring cash or card.
What is included with the purchase of a GA ticket for the Top 50 Picnic on Sunday, November 5?
Top 50 Picnic GA ticket holders will have free access to food from thirty-plus barbecue joints. Beverages will be sold separately. Bring cash or card.
What is included with the purchase of a VIP ticket for the Top 50 Picnic on Sunday, November 5?
Top 50 Picnic VIP ticket holders will have access to food from thirty-plus barbecue joints, and they will have access to the grounds one hour in advance of GA ticket holders. Ticket also includes two complimentary drink tickets. Other beverages will be sold separately.Bring cash or card.
No. BBQ Week began in response to the pandemic, and as the restaurant industry has begun to bounce back, we have decided to focus our efforts back to promoting Texas barbecue joints through journalism and TM BBQ Fest. If you’re interested in receiving discounts at local barbecue joints, consider joining TM BBQ Club.
