BBQ Ribfest cover photo
BBQ Ribfest

BBQ Ribfest

@bbq_ribfest_2026 · Festival

Multi-day festival at Headwaters Park featuring BBQ, ribs, blues and rock music performances in downtown Fort Wayne.

Fort Wayne's BBQ Ribfest is entering its 28th season with a musical lineup featuring rock and blues legends at Headwaters Park. The festival runs Thursday through Sunday with extended hours, offering BBQ and ribs alongside live music performances. It's a celebration of outdoor dining, live music, and community gathering in downtown Fort Wayne.

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Festival Countdown

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Thu, May 14, 2026 – Sun, May 17, 2026

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Quick Info

Location
Fort Wayne
Dates
Thu, May 14, 2026 – Sun, May 17, 2026
Ages
All Ages
Stages
1
Venue Type
Outdoor
Genres
Amenities
Outdoor SeatingAll AgesLive music

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BBQ Ribfest has become an established May tradition in Fort Wayne, now in its 28th season of combining two favorite American pastimes: authentic BBQ and live music. The festival takes place at Headwaters Park in downtown Fort Wayne, transforming the outdoor venue into a celebration of food, music, and community.

Festival Schedule and Hours

The festival runs for four days, Thursday through Sunday. Operating hours extend throughout each day, with Thursday through Saturday running from 11:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., and Sunday operating from 11:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. This extended schedule allows attendees to visit at various times during the weekend.

Music and Entertainment

The 2026 edition features a musical lineup heavy on rock and blues legends, providing live entertainment throughout the festival. The music programming complements the BBQ offerings, creating a full sensory festival experience for attendees.

Food and Beverage

As the name suggests, BBQ Ribfest centers on authentic barbecue and ribs, with multiple vendors and pit masters preparing their specialties. The outdoor venue at Headwaters Park provides a scenic setting for outdoor dining during the late spring season in Fort Wayne.

Dates

Thu, May 14, 2026 – Sun, May 17, 2026

Tickets

Venue Info

Stages
1
Outdoor
Yes

Visitor Info

Age Restriction
All Ages

Location

Headwaters Park, downtown Fort Wayne

Fort Wayne, Indiana, United States

Genres

Amenities

Outdoor SeatingAll AgesLive music

Links

Member Since

July 2026