The Top 5 NYC-Area BBQ Events in 2025
For barbecue lovers in the New York City area, 2025 is shaping up to be a hot and fast year. From brisket to ribs to whole hog, some of the country’s best pitmasters will be bringing the heat to the Big Apple and the surrounding area.
Whether you’re a seasoned BBQ eater or just getting started in the world of slow-cooked meats, these five upcoming events will satisfy your craving for mouth-watering barbecue.
2024 Brisket King winner Leland Avellino of Avellino Family Barbecue will return to defend his title in 2025.
Brisket King NYC 2025
Date: Wednesday, April 23 | Location: Pig Beach BBQ, Queens, NY
A carnivore’s paradise, Brisket King NYC returns in 2025 to crown a new king of brisket. Expect a diverse lineup of pitmasters, chefs, and barbecue enthusiasts serving up a variety of brisket types, from Texas-style to innovative takes with global influences. A ticket to Brisket King means all-you-can-eat samples, plenty of craft beer and whiskey pairings, and the chance to vote for your favorite bite.
This year will see the return of 2024 Brisket King winner Leland Avellino of Avellino Family Barbecue in Stamford, CT. It will also include Darius Burke of Takeover Barbecue in North Hollywood, CA; Vincent Mangual of Empire BBQ in NYC; Anthony Scerri of Smoke Sweats in Brooklyn, NY; Cenobio Canalizo of Morgan's Brooklyn BBQ in Brooklyn, NY; and Eric Vitale of Eazy's Craft Barbecue Co. in NJ.
5th Annual Jeff Michner BBQ Benefit
Date: Saturday, April 26 | Location: Pig Beach BBQ, Queens, NY
Named in honor of the late Jeff Michner, the beloved first pitmaster at Pig Beach, this annual benefit brings together top-tier barbecue talent to raise funds for a good cause. This year's edition will be hosted by cook, author, and TV host Jess Pryles of Hardcore Carnivore fame.
Held at Pig Beach’s huge Queens location, this gathering features an all-star lineup of chefs from all over the country cooking everything from ribs to pulled pork to head-spinning fusion dishes, all served with a side of camaraderie and community. With live music, auctions, and plenty of smoked meat to go around, it’s an event that both honors Michner’s legacy and supports those in need.
Rib King NYC 2025
Date: Saturday, May 24 | Location: Industry City, Brooklyn, NY
If ribs are your favorite bite of barbecue, then Rib King NYC is the event for you. This high-energy competition pits top chefs against each other in a battle of sauce, smoke, and spice to see who takes home the coveted title of Rib King.
Attendees get to sample a wide variety of ribs while also enjoying craft beverages and live entertainment. It’s a meat lover’s dream that showcases the diversity and creativity of New York’s barbecue scene. The event's location is notable as well, as Industry City is a great spot to spend time before and after Rib King NYC.
National BBQ Festival
Date: June 13-15 | Location: Nassau County, Long Island, NY
After over a decade-long break, the ultimate BBQ showdown is back. The National BBQ Festival will be the largest barbecue event held on Long Island in many years and will be attracting top talent from all over the country.
Join in the fun during three days at Eisenhower Park in Nassau County, where the nation’s top BBQ teams will battle for a $100,000 purse. Alongside the competition, attendees will be able to meet legendary live-fire pitmasters, savor tons of BBQ samples, groove to live music, sip on local brews, and get in on all the family-friendly fun. This will be a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts of all ages from the NYC metro area and Long Island.
Pig Island NYC 2025
Date: Saturday, Sept 6, 2025 | Location: Snug Harbor, Staten Island, NY
Pig Island NYC is a celebration of all things pork, bringing together some of the best chefs and pitmasters in the region to showcase their takes on whole hog and more. This outdoor festival, known for its lively atmosphere, pairs top-notch locally-sourced barbecue with local ciders, craft beers, and spirits.
The event is notably held at Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, which is a great place to walk around and spend time even when you aren't stuffing your face with delicious BBQ. If you’re looking for an event that embodies the spirit of barbecue culture—bold flavors, good drinks, and a great community—Pig Island is the place to be.
Get Ready to Feast
Whether you’re a die-hard brisket fan, a rib connoisseur, a whole hog fiend, or just love the smoky goodness of expertly prepared meats, these five events are guaranteed to satisfy.
Mark your calendars, bring your appetite, and prepare to experience some of the best barbecue the NYC metro area has to offer this year. I look forward to seeing you all this year!
Sean Ludwig
Founder, NYC BBQ