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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!

Saturday

1–31

May 2027

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

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YEARLY DATEAll of May

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYBBQ

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get your grills fired up and ready because it's National Barbecue Month! This month-long celebration, which takes place every May, is dedicated to all things barbecue – from mouth-watering meats to delicious sides and sauces. Did you know that the word "barbecue" comes from the Spanish word "barbacoa" which means "sacred fire pit"? It's been a popular cooking method since ancient times and has evolved into a beloved American tradition. So get ready to indulge in some finger-licking goodness as we celebrate this smokin' holiday!

TIMELINE

National Barbecue Month Timeline

Origin of Barbecue

The Spanish observed natives in the Caribbean using a cooking method on a grill made of green wood. They termed it "barbacoa."

Barbecue in the United States

During colonies formation, barbecue established its place in American culture as a popular method for cooking meats, especially in the South.

Barbecue Competitions

The first reported barbecue cooking competitions began in the 1960s, turning the cooking method into a national pastime.

First Official National Barbecue Month

National Barbecue Month was first recognized in May by the National Barbecue & Grilling Association to celebrate and promote this popular cooking style.

Barbecue Hits Television

Barbecue culture spread in the US and globally with the advent of food-focused television shows and channels, featuring barbecue recipes and competitions.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Barbecue Month

Host a barbecue cook-off

Invite friends and family over for a friendly competition to see who can make the best barbecue dish. Have everyone bring their own recipes and ingredients, and then let the taste test begin!

TRY

Try new barbecue recipes

Challenge yourself to try new and unique barbecue recipes throughout the month. You never know, you might find a new favorite dish.

ATTEND

Attend a barbecue festival

Search for local barbecue festivals happening in your area and attend one with friends or family. You'll get to taste a variety of different barbecue styles and maybe even learn some tips and tricks.

HAVE

Have a backyard barbecue party

Invite friends and family over for a backyard barbecue party. Set up some games, have some music playing, and enjoy some delicious food with the people you love.

LEARN

Learn about the history of barbecue

Take some time to research the history of barbecue and its cultural significance. You'll gain a deeper appreciation for this beloved cooking method and maybe even find some interesting facts to share at your next barbecue gathering.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Barbecue Month

The flavors are unbeatable

From smoky ribs to juicy burgers to flavorful grilled vegetables, there's no denying that barbecue offers an unbeatable combination of taste and texture. No wonder it has become such a beloved American cuisine!

It's a celebration of great food and good times

National Barbecue Month is all about gathering with friends and family, firing up the grill, and enjoying delicious food together. It's a time to relax, have fun, and indulge in some mouthwatering barbecue dishes!

Barbecue brings people together

There's something special about the communal experience of cooking and eating barbecue. It encourages conversation and bonding over shared dishes, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

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Fire up the grill and get ready to sizzle this National Grilling Month! From burgers to veggies, we've got all the tips and tricks for a perfect BBQ.

National Meat Month

Indulge in all your favorite meats this National Meat Month - from juicy steaks to savory barbecue, it's time to savor every bite!

National Brisket Day

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