Get ready for a long weekend of mouthwatering barbecue, lively entertainment, and activities everyone can enjoy at the fifth annual Pinehurst Barbecue Festival, happening August 29–31, 2025, in the heart of Pinehurst Village, North Carolina.
Presented by US Foods, Our State Magazine, and Pinehurst Resort, this three-day event brings together top North Carolina pitmasters, signature events, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
A Three-Day Celebration of BBQ
Friday, August 29: The festival kicks off with the High On The Hog Gourmet Pitmaster Dinner at Pinehurst Fair Barn (6:30–8:30 p.m.), hosted by Matthew Register of Southern Smoke BBQ. Here, guests savor gourmet barbecue and creative cocktails in an upscale setting.
Saturday, August 30: Start your morning at the “Q” School Grilling Class at Pinehurst Arboretum’s Timmel Pavilion (10 a.m.–Noon), where aspiring grillers get hands-on instruction from seasoned experts. Later on, Bourbon & Bites at North & South Bar in The Manor (5–7 p.m.) invites guests 21+ to sample fine whiskeys paired with delicious appetizers, including a complimentary cigar. If you’re looking for something inventive, head to Barbecue Reimagined at BHAWK Distillery (5:30–8:00 p.m.) for chef-created dishes that push Southern flavors in new directions.
Sunday, August 31: The highlight is the Christopher Prieto Pitmaster Invitational in the Village of Pinehurst—early admission begins at 11:00 a.m. (with a special ticket), followed by general admission at noon. North Carolina’s celebrated pitmasters, led by the award-winning Christopher Prieto, serve up a bounty of barbecue varieties: whole hog, ribs, brisket, poultry, and classic Southern sides. Stroll through vendor tents, sample house-made sauces, and experience the best BBQ the Carolinas have to offer.
Family Fun and Festivities
The Pinehurst Barbecue Festival is designed with families in mind. Throughout the weekend, enjoy live music from local and regional acts, interactive kids’ zones, games like cornhole, and barbecue workshops. There’s something for barbecue enthusiasts of all ages—from grilling demos and sauce tastings to outdoor fun in the picturesque Village of Pinehurst.
Plan Your Visit
Take advantage of Pinehurst’s easy-access parking and shuttle service connecting festival activities. With plenty of local accommodations and the scenic setting of Pinehurst Resort, you can turn your festival visit into a memorable summer getaway.
Don’t Miss Out
Join neighbors and travelers alike for a weekend that celebrates taste, tradition, and Carolina hospitality, and don’t miss the chance to explore this historic town, too. The Pinehurst Barbecue Festival invites you and your family to dig in, have fun, and make memories at one of North Carolina’s most beloved culinary events!
