The Village of Pinehurst will once again come alive with the sights, sounds, and mouthwatering aromas of Carolina barbecue during the fifth annual Pinehurst Barbecue Festival, running August 29–31, 2025.
Presented by US Foods, Our State Magazine, and Pinehurst Resort, this standout weekend unites award-winning pitmaster Christopher Prieto and many of North Carolina’s celebrated barbecue experts in one of the state’s most scenic destinations.
A Weekend of Exceptional Events
Across three unforgettable days, guests are treated to a curated experience blending barbecue tradition with culinary innovation. The festivities kick off Friday, August 29, at Pinehurst Fair Barn with the High On The Hog Gourmet Pitmaster Dinner, hosted by Matthew Register of Southern Smoke BBQ—an exclusive evening of gourmet barbecue, craft cocktails, and convivial company.
On Saturday, August 30, aspiring grillmasters and barbecue fans can attend “Q”-School Grilling Class at the Pinehurst Arboretum’s Timmel Pavilion, a hands-on crash course in barbecue and grilling technique. The afternoon heats up with Bourbon & Bites at The Manor’s North & South Bar—a whiskey tasting event paired with delicious appetizers (21+ only, with a complimentary cigar for participants). Later that evening, the culinary creativity continues at Barbecue Reimagined at BHAWK Distillery, where chef ambassadors from the North Carolina Chef Showdown transform NC proteins and produce into inspired barbecue bites.
The Main Event: Christopher Prieto Pitmaster Invitational
The festival’s highlight arrives Sunday, August 31, with the Christopher Prieto Pitmaster Invitational on the Village Green. Beginning with early entry at 11:00am (general admission at noon), this marquee event brings together top pitmasters from across North Carolina for a grand tasting of barbecue classics—whole hog, ribs, brisket, and poultry—served alongside a variety of beloved Southern sides. Attendees can sample sauces and products from local vendors, meet the personalities behind the pits, and soak in the vibrant festival atmosphere until the afternoon wraps at 4:00pm.
The Pinehurst Touch
This festival offers more than just incredible food; it’s set against the elegant backdrop of Pinehurst Resort and its idyllic village setting. Guests enjoy not only expertly prepared barbecue, but also live local music, chef-led demonstrations, and a community of fellow enthusiasts. Every detail, from shuttle service to clear event maps and the variety of dining options, is designed for a seamless, sophisticated experience.
Join the Celebration
The Pinehurst Barbecue Festival isn’t simply a feast—it’s a celebration of the traditions, tastes, and techniques that define Carolina barbecue. Whether you’re here for the High On The Hog dinner, eager to sharpen your grilling skills at “Q”-School, or counting down the hours to the Pitmaster Invitational, this is the region’s definitive barbecue event. Mark your calendar for August 29–31, 2025, and savor the best of barbecue done Pinehurst style.
