Taste of BBQ & Music Festival - Celebrating BBQ and Music Together

Overview of the Festival

The Taste of BBQ & Music Festival is an annual event that transforms the charming town of Suwanee into a hotspot of BBQ and live music. The festival attracts visitors from across the region with its incredible range of BBQ vendors and talented musicians.

This event typically occurs in October, and this year it will be on 5th October, 2024. This makes the perfect time to enjoy cooler autumn weather while indulging in some of the best BBQ in the South. Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast or a music lover, there’s something for everyone at this lively celebration.

What to Expect at the Taste of BBQ & Music Festival

The festival brings a rich variety of activities to keep attendees entertained all day long. Here are some key highlights:

1. Barbecue Delights

At the heart of the festival is its BBQ competition. Local grill masters and BBQ vendors set up booths, offering everything from succulent ribs and smoked brisket to juicy pulled pork and BBQ chicken. Attendees can sample different BBQ styles, try unique sauces, and learn more about Southern barbecue traditions.

You’ll find traditional Southern BBQ dishes, as well as creative spins on classic recipes, from spicy rubs to exotic flavor combinations. Be sure to bring your appetite because the portions are generous!

2. Live Music

Live music is a significant component of the event, with the festival's stage hosting a variety of genres, including country, rock, blues, and folk. Bands perform throughout the day, providing the perfect soundtrack for a day filled with delicious food. Music lovers can sit back and enjoy local talents as they relax on the lawn or by the park’s amphitheater.

3. Family-Friendly Activities

The Taste of BBQ & Music Festival is a great family outing, with activities for people of all ages. In addition to food and music, the festival features kid-friendly games, inflatables, and craft stations, ensuring that even the youngest attendees are entertained.

4. Local Vendors

The festival also highlights local artisans and small businesses. You’ll find stalls selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and artwork, making it a great opportunity to shop for unique gifts and support local talent. The marketplace atmosphere adds another layer of fun to the festival experience.

Venue: Suwanee Town Center Park

The Taste of BBQ & Music Festival is held at Suwanee Town Center Park, a spacious and scenic venue located in the heart of Suwanee. This large open space, complete with an amphitheater, a fountain, and plenty of green lawn areas, offers a relaxed setting for festivalgoers.

The park has become a popular gathering spot for community events, and its modern design makes it a perfect location for large festivals like the Taste of BBQ & Music. The venue’s open layout allows for easy exploration of the food stalls, vendor booths, and music performances, so you can move freely from one activity to the next.

Key Features of the Venue:

• Amphitheater Stage: The main stage for live music performances.

• Spacious Lawn: Perfect for picnics and watching live performances.

• Playground: A dedicated space for children to enjoy.

• Walking Paths: Well-maintained paths that make it easy to navigate the park.

Accessibility and Getting There

Location:

• Suwanee Town Center Park is located at 330 Town Center Ave, Suwanee, GA 30024, a convenient and central location within the town.

By Car:

The park is easily accessible by car, and for those coming from outside of Suwanee, it’s only a short drive from major cities like Atlanta (about 35 minutes).

• Parking: The venue offers ample parking, but since this is a popular event, parking may fill up quickly. It’s a good idea to arrive early or consider parking in nearby areas and walking to the park.

By Public Transport:

For those relying on public transportation, there are several bus routes that connect Suwanee to nearby cities. However, rideshare services like Uber or Lyft are recommended as they provide a more direct route to the festival site.

Nearby Accommodations:

If you’re planning to stay overnight, there are plenty of accommodation options within a short distance from Suwanee Town Center Park. Popular choices include hotels such as Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Suwanee, Fairfield Inn & Suites, and Hampton Inn Atlanta-Mall of Georgia. Booking in advance is advisable due to the high demand during festival weekends.

What to Bring

• Comfortable Footwear: Since the festival involves a lot of walking and standing, comfortable shoes are a must.

• Blanket or Lawn Chair: If you want to relax on the lawn while listening to music, bringing a blanket or lawn chair is a great idea.

• Sunscreen and Hats: Even though it’s held in October, it’s always a good idea to protect yourself from the sun during the day.

• Cash/Card: While most vendors accept credit cards, some smaller ones may only accept cash, so it’s good to have both on hand.

Tips for Attending the Festival

• Arrive Early: The earlier you arrive, the better your chances of finding good parking and shorter lines for food and drinks.

• Explore All the BBQ Vendors: Don’t settle for the first stall you see. The festival is known for its variety, so take your time to sample different styles and flavors.

• Pace Yourself: With so much food available, it can be tempting to dive in quickly, but remember to pace yourself to fully enjoy the day.

• Stay for the Music: The live music performances are a key part of the festival experience, so plan to stick around and enjoy the talent.

Conclusion

The Taste of BBQ & Music Festival in Suwanee is an unmissable event for BBQ lovers and anyone looking for a fun, family-friendly day out. With a perfect blend of savory BBQ, live music, and local culture, this festival offers a unique taste of Southern hospitality. Whether you’re attending with friends, family, or by yourself, you’re guaranteed to have a great time. So mark your calendars, and don’t miss this flavorful and entertaining event!

City Hall, Suwanee USA