If you live in Northern California, we have a great Father’s Day activity for you! The city of Martinez is hosting its annual King of the County BBQ Challenge & Music Festival on Father’s Day weekend. This BBQ festival in Northern California has live music, food vendors, crafts, and the main event– a BBQ competition.

This outdoor family festival combines the best of BBQ, music, and entertainment, creating an extravagant experience.
Country BBQ website
Enjoy live music, kids' rides and activities, arts & craft vendor booths, snack food vendors, and, of course, the most delicious BBQ food you can find!
The King of the County BBQ Challenge & Music Festival takes place on June 16-18, 2023 at Martinez Waterfront Park.
Martinez King of the County BBQ Challenge & Music Festival Facebook Page
In past years the event has attracted roughly 30-40 teams of BBQ enthusiasts who all compete for the “King of the County” title for best barbecue. Many of the teams are local families who take pride in their barbecue skills. The barbecue is not for public sale or sample. However, this event will have many food vendors selling barbecue.
The festival kicks off on June 16th at 5 p.m. with live music, food, and vendors.
Country BBQ website
The BBQ competition takes place on Saturday and Sunday. Backyard barbecue teams from all over the state compete for this honorary title.

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This will be the 12th year of the festival and competition.
Country BBQ website
To determine the winners, judges conduct a blind taste test with numbered boxes. They are supervised by two event chairs and table monitors. Awards include cash prizes, trophies, swag, and, of course, bragging rights. This year they’re also awarding Hotel Savings Cards of up to $500 to winners.
With more than 75 vendor booths selling arts and crafts, as well as all types of food, there is sure to be something for everyone.
Martinez King of the County BBQ Challenge & Music Festival Facebook Page
There will also be a ton of activities for kids. The Kid’s Zone includes a Ferris wheel, mind winder, giant slide, jeep ride, tubs of fun, and many more amusement park rides and games. Festival-goers will hear a variety of music from bands playing classic Motown soul, country, rock, Americana, and more!
Waterfront Park in Martinez is located along the Carquinez Strait.
Country BBQ website
The park has walking paths, benches, and public restrooms. Waterfront Park is conveniently located near downtown Martinez, not far from the Martinez Amtrak Station.

Barbecue competitions like this one are a fun way to build camaraderie and community, and level up your skills if you’re a barbecue aficionado. Even if you’re not into barbecue, this festival has something for everyone.

The King of the County BBQ Challenge & Music Festival in Martinez is free to enter. Festival hours are: Friday, 5-9 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, (Father’s Day) 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

This BBQ festival in Northern California is a great event to take Dad to on Father’s Day.

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Waterfront Park, 245 N Court St, Martinez, CA 94553, USA