National Barbecue Month
National Barbecue Month: A Celebration of Grilling and Gathering
National Barbecue Month is an annual celebration held every May to honor the art of barbecuing. This month-long event encourages people to fire up their grills, enjoy outdoor cooking, and embrace the joy of sharing delicious meals with friends and family. From smoky ribs to grilled veggies, barbecuing is more than just cooking—it’s a cultural tradition that brings people together.
Quick Facts
- When is it? May 1–31 annually.
- Tagged as: Food, Outdoor Cooking, Summer Celebration.
- What’s the hashtag? #NationalBarbecueMonth.
- When was it founded? 1963.
- Who founded it? The Barbecue Council.
History of National Barbecue Month
The origins of National Barbecue Month date back to 1963 when the Barbecue Council initiated this celebration to promote outdoor cooking. Over the decades, barbecuing has evolved from a simple cooking method to a beloved pastime. Its roots trace back centuries, with Indigenous peoples in the Caribbean using wooden grills called “barbacoa” to slow-cook meat. Today, barbecuing is synonymous with summer gatherings and culinary creativity.
Timeline
- 1500s: Spanish explorers observe Caribbean natives using “barbacoa” grills.
- 1756: Samuel Johnson defines “barbecue” as a whole hog cooked over fire.
- 1963: The Barbecue Council establishes National Barbecue Month.
- 1981: The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) begins promoting barbecue culture.
- 2002: HPBA merges with other organizations to expand barbecue awareness.
Dates by Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | May 1 | Thursday |
| 2026 | May 1 | Friday |
| 2027 | May 1 | Saturday |
| 2028 | May 1 | Monday |
| 2029 | May 1 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | May 1 | Wednesday |
Observed
National Barbecue Month is observed by hosting backyard barbecues, experimenting with new grilling techniques, and exploring regional barbecue styles. From Kansas City’s tangy sauces to Texas’ smoky brisket, there’s something for everyone. Many also use this time to upgrade their grilling gear or learn safety tips for outdoor cooking.
Fun Facts About National Barbecue Month
- The word “barbecue” may come from the Taino word barbacoa or the French phrase barbe à queue (beard to tail).
- Burgers are the most popular food cooked on grills in the U.S.
- Lexington, North Carolina, is known as the “Barbecue Capital of the World.”
- Presidents like Lyndon B. Johnson popularized barbecue at White House events.
- The longest barbecue lasted 80 hours in Georgia.
Quiz
Test your barbecue knowledge!
- What does “barbacoa” mean?
- Which U.S. city is called the “Barbecue Capital of the World”?
- True or False: Baby back ribs come from younger pigs.
- What year was National Barbecue Month founded?
- Which president hosted the first barbecue at the White House?
Answers:
- A wooden grill used by Caribbean natives.
- Lexington, North Carolina.
- False—it’s due to their smaller size compared to spare ribs.
- 1963.
- Lyndon B. Johnson.
FAQs
Q: Can vegetarians celebrate National Barbecue Month?
A: Absolutely! Grilled vegetables, plant-based burgers, and veggie kebabs are delicious barbecue options.
Q: Is there a specific day for barbecuing in May?
A: Yes! National Barbecue Day is celebrated on May 16.
Q: What’s the difference between grilling and barbecuing?
A: Grilling uses high heat for quick cooking, while barbecuing involves slow-cooking meat over indirect heat with smoke for flavor.
Related
- National Grilling Month (July)
- International BBQ Day
- Kansas City BBQ Festival
- Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Contest