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Texas Monthly is excited to bring TM BBQ Fest to the city of Lockhart, the BBQ Capital of Texas! On November 5-6, the historical downtown and Lockhart City Park will create the backdrop for an expanded weekend festival, designed to celebrate many aspects of Texas barbecue.
Click below to view weekend map!
Leading up to the festival in Lockhart,TM BBQ Week—a statewide restaurant week celebrating barbecue—returns October 29. Find more details below, and follow the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest Facebook page for real-time updates.
And finally, after two years of partnership, Texas Monthly is pleased to announce that Feeding Texas is now the official beneficiary of BBQ Fest. We’re proud to join the unified effort for a hunger-free Texas. Ticket sales will support donations to Feeding Texas and the network of food banks across the state, and additional contributions can be made on the Feeding Texas website.
Poster art for TM BBQ Fest this year was designed by Taylor Rushing.
Lockhart
November 5-6, 2022
Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is expanding to two days—Saturday, November 5 is the *new* BBQ World’s Fair in downtown Lockhart. Sunday, November 6 is the annual Top 50 Picnic in Lockhart City Park. Find more details below.
Tickets on sale now. VIP wristbands to Saturday’s World’s Fair and Weekend Bundles are officially sold out. Fortunately, The BBQ World’s Fair is free and open to the public and barbecue will be available for purchase. Tickets to Sunday’s Top 50 Picnic are limited as well, so get yours before they’re gone.
REMINDER: For Sunday’s Top 50 Picnic, VIP entry opens at 12:00pm. GA entry opens at 1:00pm.
In the streets of downtown Lockhart, this event celebrates the big, wide world of BBQ—featuring food, drinks, live music, cooking demos, and a marketplace. Featured joints will showcase international and creative flavors, plus a lineup of curated taquerias. Market vendors will include metalworks, crafts, sauces, rubs, and more. The event is free and open to the public. Bring cash/card for food, drink, market purchases. VIP wristbands for barbecue joints can be purchased in advance.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC: This event is free. Bring cash/card for food, drink and market purchases. RSVP here to get updates to your inbox.
PARKING: Downtown street parking limited and first-come-first-served. There will be a FREE shuttle from the high school to downtown, starting at 10am.
VIP WRISTBAND (SOLD OUT): For $50, guests can buy a VIP wristband to get exclusive access to tastings from the featured joints between 12-2pm. Quantity is limited and is expected to sell out. (Update: VIP Wristbands for Saturday have sold out, but the event is still free and open to the public.)
FEEDING TEXAS: A $3 donation is added to each wristband. If you’d like to increase your support, please visit the Feeding Texas website.
LIVE MUSIC: Starting at noon, we will have a series of Texas artists performing on the main stage. Enjoy music from Jesse Stratton Band, Squeezebox Bandits, Mariachi Las Coronelas, Nick Garza’s Get Along, and Daphne Tunes. In the meantime, check out our BBQ Fest playlist on Spotify.
FEATURED BARBECUE: Enjoy limited menus available for purchase from Barb’s-B-Q, CM Smokehouse, Harlem Road Texas BBQ, JQ’s Tex Mex BBQ, KG BBQ, Khói Barbecue, and Reese Bros Barbecue.
TM TACO TRAIL: Curated by taco editor José Ralat. Learn why tacos are so important to Texas barbecue by tasting for yourself on the Taco Trail! Limited menus available for purchase from Davila’s BBQ, Mario’s Tacos, Stixs & Stone, and Vaqueros Texas Bar-B-Q.
MEAT MARKET: Shop goods and apparel from 20+ Texas vendors.
TEXAS BOOK FESTIVAL @ BBQ FEST: Meet your favorite food authors: Aaron Franklin, Jess Pryles, Kevin Bludso, Robert Moss, Adrian Davila, José Ralat, Mando Rayo, and of course, Daniel Vaughn. Plus, get an advance copy of Texas Monthly’sThe Big Texas Cookbook!
UPDATES: Follow this event on Facebook for real-time updates, including line up of food, music, and more.
At Lockhart City Park, this is the event that everyone knows and loves—a Sunday afternoon with live music, beverages, and 30+ barbecue joints featured on Texas Monthly’s most recent list of Top 50 BBQ Joints. New to the event will be BBQ Capital Corner, featuring some hometown favorites from Lockhart.
GENERAL ADMISSION: GA tickets start at $90 and include food at all the featured joints. Tickets at each price tier are limited and increase over time. GA entry opens at 1:00pm.
VIP ADMISSION: VIP tickets start at $120 and include food at all the featured joints, plus an extra hour of VIP access, meaning fewer lines! VIP tickets also include 2 complimentary drink tickets. Tickets at each price tier are limited and increase over time. VIPentry opens at 12:00pm.
FEEDING TEXAS: A $3 donation is added to each ticket. If you’d like to increase your support, please visit the Feeding Texas website.
LINEUP: Please see the graphic below for a full list of barbecue joints participating in this year’s Top 50 Picnic.
LIVE MUSIC: During the event, enjoy music from Sir Woman, Jenny & the Corn Ponies, and Al Dressen’s Super Swing Revue. In the meantime, check out our BBQ Fest playlist on Spotify.
UPDATES: Follow this event on Facebook for real-time updates, including programming, music, and more.
PARKING: Parking at the park is $10. See this map for directions. We also encourage rideshare apps and carpooling.
12-4 p.m.
Pit Stop Events
June 16, 2022 • August 18, 2022
Leading up to the festival in Lockhart, Texas Monthly launched two summertime Pit Stop events to bring a taste of BBQ Fest to more corners of Texas. See photos from the events below, and don’t forget to follow the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest Facebook page for real-time updates.
Thursday, June 16, 2022
Pit Stop @ Houston
Hosted at Truth BBQ in Houston, multiple barbecue joints collaborated on a hearty family-style dinner alongside TM barbecue editor Daniel Vaughn. Before the meal, guests enjoyed a whole hog cooking demo. Featured barbecue joints include:
Hosted at Heim Barbecue (River Location), west of Fort Worth, four barbecue joints collaborated on a seated family-style dinner, where each course told a story connected to the pitmaster who created it. Before the meal, guests enjoyed a live cooking demo. Featured barbecue joints included:
Mark your calendars for another round of TM BBQ Week, a statewide restaurant week celebrating barbecue. From October 29-November 6, participating joints across the state will offer special prices and menu items, and Texas Monthly will round-up all the details in one place. Follow the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest Facebook page for real-time updates.
Highlights from last year!
Smoked Sausage Corn Dog from Heim Barbecue
Post Oak Smoked Beef Rib with Massaman Curry from Loro Asian Smokehouse & Bar
What is Texas Monthly BBQ Fest benefiting Feeding Texas?
Held annually since 2010, Texas Monthly BBQ Fest is the state’s premiere barbecue celebration, comprised of several events. The flagship is a weekend festival in Lockhart—the BBQ World’s Fair on Saturday, November 5 and the Top 50 Picnic on Sunday, November 6. Leading up the weekend festival, there are two smaller Pit Stop events and a statewide restaurant week called TM BBQ Week from October 29-November 6.
Feeding Texas is the official beneficiary of the festival and is 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.
Can I volunteer for BBQ Fest?
Yes!We are accepted event volunteers to join our crew for 4 hour shifts from Friday, November 4 to Sunday, November 6. Event volunteers get free t-shirt and GA ticket to the Top 50 Picnic on Sunday. Deadline is closed.
Will Daniel Vaughn be at TM BBQ Fest events? events?
Yes! He’ll be at the Pit Stops, BBQ World’s Fair, and the Top 50 Picnic! 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.
Are dogs/pets allowed at the TM BBQ Fest?
No. At all related events, only service dogs will be allowed on property.
Are TM BBQ Fest events kid-friendly?
The Pit Stop events will be ages 21 and up, but the weekend festival in Lockhart is family-friendly! See Ticketing FAQs for info about children ticket prices.
Will the TM BBQ Fest events be wheelchair accessible?
Yes! If you have any questions or would like any information on ADA access and accommodations, please email: TMevents@texasmonthly.com
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, locate the closest security guard, or BBQ Fest Staff member.
Will there be a lost and found?
After the events, please email: TMevents@texasmonthly.com to inquire about lost items. Texas Monthly will not be held responsible for unclaimed items.
How do I get press credentials to cover the event?
Please email TMevents@texasmonthly.com. We’ll review submissions and will follow up.
Who should I contact about event sponsorships?
For sponsor inquires, please email please email jlevigarza@texasmonthly.com.
Who should I contact with any general inquiries?
For general inquiries, please email TMevents@texasmonthly.com.
The BBQ World’s Fair will be held on Saturday, November 5 from 12-7pm.
Where is the BBQ World's Fair?
The BBQ World’s Fair will take place 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 new day of barbecue celebration, part of Texas Monthly BBQ Fest. There will be barbecue joints, taquerias, beverages, live music, BBQ talks, and a marketplace with vendors. It is free and open to the public. VIP Saturday Wristbands can be purchased for barbecue food service.
VIP Saturday wristbands get you a punchcard to try free tastings the 7 participating barbecue joints from 12-2pm. After 2pm, sales open to the general public.
For ALL attendees, drinks and food from Taco Trail vendors will be available for purchase the entire event.
Do I need a ticket to attend the BBQ World's Fair?
No, but we encourage you to RSVP. The event will be free and open the public. Food, beverages, and market items will require purchase. VIP Wristbands can be purchased for special barbecue food service.
Will I need a cash or debit/credit card at the BBQ World's Fair?
Yes. Food, beverages, and market items will require purchase. The only exception is for attendees who purchase a VIP Saturday Wristband. See Ticketing FAQs for more details.
Where should I park? Will the streets be accessible?
Some streets downtown will be closed to vehicles starting Friday evening. Notice from the city can be seen here. Street parking near downtown is limited and first-come-first-served. There will be a FREE shuttle from the high school to downtown, starting at 10am on Saturday.
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.
Can I bring in outside food, beverages, coolers, or chairs?
The Top 50 Picnic will be held on Sunday, November 6 from 12-4pm. IMPORTANT: VIP entry opens at 12:00pm. GA entry opens at 1:00pm.
*Note: Daylight savings time begins at 2:00 a.m. Sunday, November 6. 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? What's included with my ticket?
The Top 50 Picnic has been at the center of Texas Monthly BBQ Fest for over a decade. The event invites 30+ barbecue joints from across the state, all featured on Texas Monthly’s Top 50 BBQ List. Attendees enjoy barbecue, sides, beverages, and live music.
GA tickets get you entry at 1:00pm and food at all barbecue joints. Drinks will be for purchase.
VIP tickets get you entry at 12:00pm, food at all barbecue joints, and two complimentary drink tickets.
Do I need a ticket to attend the Top 50 Picnic?
Yes. Tickets are sold as Kids, General Admission, or VIP Admission. Get your tickets early, because prices increase over time and VIP tickets always sell out. See Ticketing FAQs for more details.
Will I need a cash or debit/credit card at the Top 50 Picnic?
Yes. Food is included with your ticket, but beverages and merch will require purchase.
Where should I park?
$10 parking at Lockhart City Park will be available on a first come, first served basis. Get directions. Attendees are encouraged to carpool and use rideshare as much as possible.
Can I bring chairs or picnic blankets to the Top 50 Picnic?
Yes, small portable/folding chairs and picnic blankets are allowed. You may not bring pop-up tents, coolers, or other portable furniture.
The Pit Stop events are smaller, more intimate events, compared to the larger festival. The events bring a taste of TM BBQ Fest to different corners of Texas. In 2022, there will be two summertime Pit Stop events leading up to the main event in Lockhart on November 5-6, 2022.
When are the two Pit Stop events in 2022?
The two Pit Stop events will take place on June 16, 2022 from 6-9pm in Houston and August 18, 2022 from 6-9pm in Fort Worth.
Where are the 2022 Pit Stop events?
The 2022 Pit Stop events will be held at Truth BBQ in Houston, TX; Heim Barbecue (River Location) west of Fort Worth.
What’s included with a Pit Stop event ticket?
Ticket holders will have access to a 60-minute educational course lead by BBQ experts followed by a hearty barbecue family-style dinner.
Early bird ticket sales for the events in Lockhart begin at 9 a.m. CT on Wednesday, June 8, 2022. Only TM BBQ Club members will have access during this time. Anyone can join TM BBQ Club during this timeframe, and can get access to early tickets. If you’re not a member, join today for a special 50% off discount through May!
Regular sale for the events in Lockhart begin 9 a.m. CT on Friday, July 1, 2022.
BBQ Fest: Top 50 Picnic, Kids (Ages 6-10): $40, see price schedule
BBQ Fest: Top 50 Picnic, GA (Ages 10+): Starting at $90, see price schedule
BBQ Fest: Top 50 Picnic, VIP Wristband (Ages 10+): Starting at $120, see price schedule **Admittance for children under 6 is free**
BBQ Fest: Weekend Bundle, GA (Ages 10+): Starting at $130, see ticket schedule
BBQ Fest: Weekend Bundle, VIP (Ages 10+): Starting at $160, see ticket schedule
It depends on the event. The Pit Stop events are 21+ only. The BBQ World’s Fair on Saturday, November 5 has free admission, but if you wish to but a VIP wristband, there is no discount. The Top 50 Picnic on Sunday, November 6 has free admission for children under age 6, but please reserve a ticket through Eventbrite in case of a sellout. Tickets for children ages 6-10 have discounted rates. See above for ticket prices.
What is included with the purchase of a ticket for the Pit Stop events in Houston and Fort Worth?
BBQ World’s Fair VIP Wristband holders will have exclusive access to samples from 9 barbecue joints between 12-2pm on November 5. Outside of this timeframe with designated vendors, other food, drink, and market vendors will be sold separately. Bring cash or card.
What is included with the purchase of a GA Ticket for the Top 50 Picnic on Sunday, November 6?
Top 50 Picnic GA ticket holders will have free access to food from 30+ 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 6?
Top 50 Picnic VIP ticket holders will have free access to food from 30+ barbecue joints, and they will have access to the grounds one hour in advance of GA ticket holders. Ticket also includes 2 complimentary drink tickets. Other beverages will be sold separately. Bring cash or card.
Are tickets refundable?
No, tickets are non-refundable once purchased. You can always transfer your tickets to someone else if you are unable to attend via Eventbrite.
TM BBQ Week will take place from October 29-November 6, 2022 at various locations during the operating hours of participating barbecue joints.
What joints are participating in TM BBQ Week?
Dozens BBQ joints across the state, previously covered in Texas Monthly, will be invited to participate. Follow Texas Monthly BBQ Fest on Facebook to be the first to know when we announce the list!
