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National Barbecue Day

Fire up the grill and get ready to celebrate National Barbecue Day! Delicious recipes, activities, and tips for a great BBQ await you!

Sunday

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMay 16

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYBBQ

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to fire up the grill and celebrate National Barbecue Day on May 16! This day has been celebrated for centuries, with some cultures even believing that barbecue is a sacred act. After all, nothing beats gathering around the grill with friends and family to enjoy delicious food cooked over an open flame. So grab your tongs and get ready for a truly memorable celebration of this age-old tradition.

DEALS & OFFERS

2026’s deals have wrapped

See who celebrated this year, and browse offers from past years.

Offers wrapped for 2026

National Barbecue Day ran on May 16. Here’s who celebrated with offers this year.

1 brand offered a deal this year

City Barbeque

See past offers

TIMELINE

National Barbecue Day Timeline

Origins of Barbecuing

Christopher Columbus introduced barbecuing to Europe after learning the practice from the Arawak people in the Caribbean.

BBQ Starts in America

During the 18th century, barbecuing started in the United States, particularly among the colonists in Virginia and Carolina.

First Commercial Grill

The first commercial charcoal grill, "Brazier" was introduced by inventor and founder of Weber-Stephen Products Co, George Stephen.

Weber Kettle Grill Launch

The Weber Kettle Grill, a popular backyard barbecue staple, is launched by George Stephen.

BBQ Competitions Begin

The first barbecue competitions started in the United States, with the Kansas City Barbeque Society leading the way in organizing these events.

National Barbecue Day Celebration

The first National Barbecue Day was celebrated in the United States, making it a yearly tradition every May 16th.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Barbecue Day

Plan a backyard barbecue

Invite your family and friends to join you for a fun afternoon of grilling all kinds of delicious food. Make sure to have plenty of sides and drinks on hand as well.

VISIT

Visit a local barbecue joint

Check out your city's best barbecue restaurants and try something new. Whether you're looking for classic ribs or something more exotic, there's something for everyone.

HOST

Host a barbecue cookoff

Invite friends over for a friendly competition to see who can make the best burgers, ribs, chicken, and more. Set up a panel of judges or have guests vote for their favorite dishes.

THROW

Throw a barbecue party

Put together the perfect menu with burgers, hot dogs, steak, kabobs, and more. Have some fun decorations, music playing in the background, and don't forget to set up some lawn games.

HAVE

Have a barbecue picnic

Pack up your cooler with all your favorite barbecued dishes, head to the park or beach, and enjoy an outdoor meal with your friends and family.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Barbecue Day

Barbecue offers something for everyone

No matter what your dietary preferences may be, there's sure to be something for everyone at a barbecue. Vegetarians can enjoy grilled vegetables or bean burgers, while meat eaters will love their choice of steaks, hot dogs and hamburgers. So why not celebrate National BBQ Day by gathering up all your friends and having a cookout? It's sure to be a feast for the senses!

Barbecue is delicious

There's nothing quite like the smoky flavor of barbecue. Whether it's slow cooked ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, or smoked brisket, the barbecued meats are always tender and juicy. Plus, you can top them with a variety of sauces and rubs to really bring out the amazing flavors!

Barbecue brings people together

Barbecuing is so much more than just cooking food - it's an experience that brings friends and family together. Sitting around the grill, sharing stories and laughing is one of life's greatest joys, and National Barbecue Day is a perfect way to spend quality time with those closest to you.

Related holidays

National Barbecue Month

Fire up the grill and get ready to savor the flavors of National Barbecue Month with mouthwatering recipes, tips, and tricks for the ultimate BBQ experience!