Frequently Asked Questions

  • The Newport BBQ Fest is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating Eastern North Carolina barbecue, community, and local heritage while giving back to the place we call home. Our inaugural two-day festival will take place on April 23–24, 2027, at Newport Town Park and will feature a whole-hog barbecue cook-off, live entertainment, local vendors, and family-friendly activities. Our mission is to honor the legacy of Newport's past barbecue festivals while creating a fresh, community focused event that raises funds for nonprofit organizations serving Carteret County.

  • The 2027 Newport BBQ Fest will be held Friday April 23 (5 pm - 10 pm) and April 24th, 2027 (8 am - 10 pm) in the Newport Community Park on Howard Boulevard in Newport, NC.

    Cook teams will cook onsite, overnight Friday April 23, 2027.

  • Admission is free! Food, drinks, arts/crafts, kids activities, etc will be available for purchase from the festival and other local vendors.

  • Yes! Friday night will host several food vendors who you can purchase from directly.

    Saturday, BBQ Sandwiches and bulk BBQ will be available for purchase under the large pavilion and thru the drive-thru, from 11 am - until sold out.

  • Not at this time. There are ATMs available on Hwy 70 at First Citizens Bank and by the Food Lion.

  • This is a rain or shine event. Pray for perfect weather!

  • Visit our Event Sponsors or Cook Team Sponsors pages to get all the info you need. Contact us if you have any questions.

  • Cook team entries will open on January 4, 2027. They will be taken on a first come, first serve basis. At least 40 cook spots are available. Register here: Cook Team Sponsors — Newport BBQ Fest

  • Free parking is available across the street from the Newport Community Park, as well as off of Verdun St.

  • Yes, there will be multiple activities for children in the Newport BBQ Fest Kidz Zone

  • Visit our volunteer registration page. We can find the perfect spot for you!

  • Reach out to us using the Contact Us page here, or message us on our Facebook Page!