Eisenhower Park is about to go up in smoke.
Sweet, delicious smoke.
That’s because after a 14-year hiatus, the National BBQ Festival is back — and this time it’s happening in Nassau County.
The announcement was just made this week.
“This festival not only celebrates the best in BBQ but also shines a spotlight on everything that makes Nassau County a premier destination, from our scenic parks and beaches to our world-class restaurants, hotels, and vibrant history,” said County Executive Bruce Blakeman.
Originally held in Douglas, Ga., from 2002 to 2011, the event will take place from June 13 to June 15, and feature intense competition among pitmasters.
This year’s festival in East Meadow will boast a $100,000 prize purse, one of the largest in the country and the biggest in the Northeast, organizers said. That purse helps draw some of the country’s top talent.
Nassau County Tourism & Promotions has enlisted RRDA, a content and marketing agency, to introduce the event to its new home on Long Island.
“Bringing the National BBQ Festival to Nassau County is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of great food, music, and this incredible community,” said Jaime Hollander, RRDA’s managing director.
The festival will feature two full days of BBQ competitions, with categories including steak, wings, brisket, ribs and whole hog.
Attendees can enjoy top-tier BBQ, with plenty of samples, live music, culinary demos, a wine and beer garden and interactive family attractions.
Registration for competitors is now open. Tickets go on sale March 1. Click here for tickets.
