Get ready for one of the most anticipated culinary events of the year! The Pinehurst Barbecue Festival brings together award-winning pitmasters, barbecue enthusiasts, local vendors, and food lovers for a weekend celebrating North Carolina’s rich barbecue traditions. Held annually over Labor Day Weekend in the Village of Pinehurst, this three-day festival features unforgettable dining experiences, educational classes, bourbon tastings, live entertainment, and the popular Pitmaster Invitational.
Whether you’re a lifelong barbecue fan or simply looking for a fun weekend in The Pines, the Pinehurst Barbecue Festival offers something for everyone. From gourmet pitmaster dinners and grilling demonstrations to family-friendly activities and opportunities to sample barbecue from some of the Carolinas’ finest pitmasters, this festival has quickly become a must-attend event on the local calendar.
On this page, you’ll find a complete guide to Pinehurst Barbecue Festival events, schedules, ticket information, participating pitmasters, and festival updates as they become available.
The signature event of the festival features several of the Carolinas’ top pitmasters serving barbecue samples alongside traditional Southern sides. Guests can enjoy craft beer, specialty vendors, sauces, rubs, entertainment, and more throughout the afternoon.
A unique dining experience where acclaimed pitmasters create an elevated barbecue menu paired with Southern hospitality, live entertainment, and special tastings.
Discover the perfect pairing of premium bourbons, whiskeys, and expertly crafted appetizers during this popular tasting event.
Learn grilling techniques, tips, and secrets from experienced pitmasters during this hands-on educational experience.
Browse local vendors, discover barbecue sauces and rubs, enjoy live music, and experience the welcoming atmosphere that makes the festival a favorite throughout North Carolina.
The 2026 Pinehurst Barbecue Festival is a Celebration of Taste and Tradition, featuring seven of North Carolina’s most accomplished pitmasters in one of the most picturesque settings in …
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The 2026 Pinehurst Barbecue Festival is a Celebration of Taste and Tradition, featuring seven of North Carolina’s most accomplished pitmasters in one of the most picturesque settings in …
Continue Reading »
The 2026 Pinehurst Barbecue Festival is a Celebration of Taste and Tradition, featuring seven of North Carolina’s most accomplished pitmasters in one of the most picturesque settings in …
Continue Reading »
The 2026 Pinehurst Barbecue Festival is a Celebration of Taste and Tradition, featuring seven of North Carolina’s most accomplished pitmasters in one of the most picturesque settings in …
Continue Reading »
The 2026 Pinehurst Barbecue Festival is a Celebration of Taste and Tradition, featuring seven of North Carolina’s most accomplished pitmasters in one of the most picturesque settings in …
Continue Reading »
The Pinehurst Barbecue Festival is typically held over Labor Day Weekend in the Village of Pinehurst, North Carolina. Dates and event schedules are announced annually.
Festival events take place throughout the Village of Pinehurst, with select events hosted at venues such as the Fair Barn, Carolina Hotel, and other locations throughout the village.
Most signature events require separate tickets. The Village of Pinehurst remains open to the public, but sampling barbecue at certain events requires a festival ticket.
The Pitmaster Invitational is the festival’s premier event featuring some of the Carolinas’ most celebrated pitmasters serving barbecue samples and Southern sides. Guests can also enjoy vendors, beverages, and entertainment.
Yes. The Pitmaster Invitational welcomes guests of all ages. Some specialty events, such as bourbon tastings and evening dinners, are restricted to adults.
Yes. Children are welcome at many festival events, including the Pitmaster Invitational. Age restrictions may apply to certain specialty events.
Leashed pets are permitted at the outdoor Pitmaster Invitational event. Guests are encouraged to keep pets under control and clean up after them.
Yes. Free parking is available throughout and around the Village of Pinehurst during festival events. Additional parking areas are typically designated by festival organizers.
The Pinehurst Barbecue Festival is a rain-or-shine event. Some activities are held indoors, while outdoor events continue as scheduled unless otherwise announced.
Tickets may be available on-site if events have not sold out. However, many festival events sell out in advance, so purchasing early is recommended.
Yes. Guests can browse specialty vendors offering barbecue sauces, rubs, local products, crafts, and other festival merchandise.
North Carolina barbecue is known for its distinct regional styles, slow-cooked meats, wood-fired traditions, and vinegar-based sauces. The Pinehurst Barbecue Festival showcases pitmasters representing some of the best barbecue traditions in the state.
Bookmark this page and check back often as we add festival schedules, ticket information, participating pitmasters, special events, and local coverage leading up to the festival.
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