National BBQ Month
May marks the start of National BBQ Month, a time to celebrate the art of barbecuing and the joy it brings to gatherings with family and friends. This month-long event encourages everyone to fire up their grills, experiment with delicious recipes, and embrace the outdoor cooking tradition that has been cherished for centuries.
Quick Facts
- When is it? May
- Tagged as: Food Celebration, Outdoor Cooking, Grilling
- What’s the hashtag? #NationalBBQMonth
- When was it founded? 1963
- Who founded it? The Barbecue Council
History of National BBQ Month
The origins of National BBQ Month date back to 1963, when the Barbecue Council initiated the celebration to promote outdoor grilling. Over time, it gained popularity as a way to kick off summer festivities. Barbecuing itself has ancient roots, with methods evolving from the Taino people’s “barbacoa” to the diverse styles we see today in American BBQ traditions.
Timeline
- Pre-Colonial Era: Indigenous peoples in the Americas develop “barbacoa” cooking techniques.
- 1756: Samuel Johnson defines “barbecue” as “a hog dressed whole” in his dictionary.
- 1963: The Barbecue Council establishes National BBQ Month.
- 1981: The Barbecue Industry Association revitalizes the celebration in May.
- 2002: The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association continues promoting BBQ culture.
National BBQ Month Dates (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | May 01 | Thursday |
| 2026 | May 01 | Friday |
| 2027 | May 01 | Saturday |
| 2028 | May 01 | Monday |
| 2029 | May 01 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | May 01 | Wednesday |
Observed
National BBQ Month is celebrated with backyard cookouts, community events, and regional BBQ competitions. People enjoy various styles of barbecue, including Carolina pulled pork, Texas brisket, Kansas City burnt ends, and Memphis ribs.
Fun Facts About BBQ
- Over 65% of Americans own a grill.
- Kansas City is often called the “BBQ capital of the world.”
- George Washington hosted several barbecues during his presidency.
- The world’s largest BBQ pit can cook up to 8,000 pounds of meat.
Quiz
- What year was National BBQ Month founded?
- What does “barbacoa” originally refer to?
- Which U.S. city is known for its burnt ends?
(Answers: 1. 1963; 2. A cooking structure used by Taino people; 3. Kansas City)
FAQs
Q: Is National BBQ Month only celebrated in the U.S.?
A: While it originated in the U.S., barbecue traditions are celebrated worldwide with regional flavors and techniques.
Q: What’s the difference between grilling and barbecuing?
A: Grilling involves high heat for quick cooking, while barbecuing is a low-and-slow method over indirect heat.
Q: How can I participate in National BBQ Month?
A: Fire up your grill, try new recipes, host a cookout, or attend local BBQ events!
Related
- National Hamburger Month (May)
- National Grilling Month (July)
- International Picnic Day (June)