Summer and barbecue go together like peanut butter and jelly, maybe better. You just can’t have one without the other! And if you are craving barbecue, there is no better place to fill your belly than the South Sound BBQ Festival happening July 12, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Huntamer Park in Lacey.
Over 20,000 people attend the festival each year – that’s how good it is! In the days leading up to the Festival, look for promotional coasters, table tents and signs created by D Zines throughout Thurston County. “When you spot one, snap a selfie and share it using the hashtag #SSBBQFest,” shares Shelley Nicholson, D Zines co-owner, “you might just win some awesome festival merch!”
Find Barbecue in Lacey Along With New Beer Garden at South Sound BBQ Festival
Come hungry to the South Sound BBQ Festival, because eating is definitely on the schedule! “We’re featuring a variety of barbecue styles that everyone will love!” shares Shelley. “From traditional slow and low barbecue – where meats are slowly smoked for that rich, tender flavor – to the exciting open flame barbecue that adds a unique char and smokiness.”
From brisket and pulled pork sandwiches to ribs and salmon, you will get to taste the best barbecue the Pacific Northwest has to offer. “A local favorite making a comeback this year is Lucky Eagle Casino & Hotel, known for their mouthwatering open-pit smoked salmon—perfectly smoked and packed with flavor!” adds Shelley.
And don’t forget all the other dishes! From sweet and tangy coleslaw, loaded baked beans and savory mac-and-cheese, there is plenty to eat at the South Sound BBQ Festival, even if you are not a fan of barbecue.
Wash it all down with fresh-squeezed lemonade or your favorite brew, located in the Beer Garden. Just try and save room for a sweet ending to your meal, with crispy funnel cakes, warm donuts, creamy ice cream, refreshing shave ice and classic kettle corn.
The Beer Garden will be back for 2025 – better than ever before! Its new location will be inside the park by the mainstage, so you can enjoy the entertainment while sipping on your favorite local beer, cider and wine. The Beer Garden hours have also expanded: it will now be open the entire festival, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.!
Want to be a food or business vendor? They still have space but it’s filling up fast, contact the South Sound BBQ Festival today!
Family-Friendly Activities in Lacey at Barbecue Festival: Mechanical Bull Back for 2025!
There will be plenty of things to see and do while you enjoy your barbecue. “We are excited to announce that this year’s event will feature a special area dedicated to family fun!” shares Shelley. “In addition to bounce houses, a brand-new area with nonprofit booths will offer a variety of engaging kids’ activities & games. There will also be live on-stage performances by talented young entertainers. It’s the perfect opportunity for families to enjoy a day full of entertainment, creativity, and community spirit.”
Capital Injury Law is proudly sponsoring a mechanical mull at the festival. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just looking for a laugh, the mechanical bull is sure to bring fun and excitement for all ages.
Adults will love the live music lineup too! This year’s entertainment lineup includes local bands the Lemmings – an original rock band that will get your energy up with powerful vocals and driving rhythms – and Back Lash, a cover band playing all your favorite classic rock, blues and country with a unique twist that is sure to get you on your feet! The Green Room brings their reggae style to the South Sound BBQ Festival and will surely put you in a good mood!
And don’t forget the highly anticipated ACU chicken wing eating contest! Sign up at the South Sound BBQ Festival for this fun event. There will be two age brackets, youth and adult. Come hungry!
Getting to the South Sound BBQ Festival 2025
The South Sound BBQ Festival is happening at Huntamer Park in Lacey, 618 Woodland Square Loop SE. Park at any of the nearby lots, or just hop on the Intercity Transit bus lines. The Intercity Transit Center is just one block from the park!
The South Sound BBQ Festival would like to thank its 2025 sponsors: D Zines, Creative Solutions & Graphic Designs; America’s Credit Union; Lucky Eagle Hotel & Casino; Capital Injury Law; ThurstonTalk; Roxy Radio; Kayo; State Farm Melanie Bakala; Uline; Lemay; Steadman Properties; PRMG Patrick Davidson; Hometown Property Management; Chicago Title & Heritage Bank. Sponsorship opportunities available for as little as $200.
“The Sound Sound BBQ is one of the region’s most anticipated summer events, and wouldn’t be possible without our amazing committee,” Shelley says. “Come for the food, fun, and community vibes – you won’t want to miss it!”
Need more barbecue? Mark your calendars now for their sister event, Nisqually Valley BBQ Rally on July 26, 2025!
South Sound BBQ Festival
July 12, 2025, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Huntamer Park
618 Woodland Square Loop SE, Lacey
Sponsored
