BBQ & Barrels represents the culmination of 45 years of a cultural tradition in Owensboro and Daviess County. It is the celebration of our past, our present, and our future, bringing together two of Owensboro’s greatest traditions – authentic, unparalleled Owensboro barbecue and historic Kentucky bourbon.

Activities:

Live Music:
    
Country music singer Chris Janson will headline the BBQ and Barrels 2024 music lineup! The multi-platinum songwriter and “Buy Me a Boat” singer will take the event stage on Saturday, May 11 with music beginning at 5:30 PM. The FREE concert will be held on the Owensboro Convention Center’s front lawn in celebration the venue’s 10th anniversary. The show will also include special guest and Kentucky native, Hannah Ellis. Fan Halen, a Van Halen tribute band, is set to rock the BBQ & Barrels stage on Friday, May 10 along with August Christopher with music beginning at 6:00 PM.  A variety of other local bands and artists will provide entertainment throughout the festival weekend on both the event stage as well as the courthouse lawn on 2nd St.

Kentucky Champions Motorcar Invitational:

Experience a car show unlike any others in the region at the inaugural Kentucky Champions Motorcar Invitational! See some of the most unique classic vehicles on display at the Owensboro Convention Center parking lot on Saturday, May 11 from 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM.

Arts & Crafts:

Browse our merchants’ unique, handcrafted items as you stroll the streets of BBQ and Barrels!

Carnival:

Fun for the whole family! Check out all the rides, games, and concessions the carnival offers. The carnival will take place on 2nd Street, just east of the big blue bridge. Tickets will be available for purchase onsite.