Blue Ridge BBQ & Blues festival
If you’re looking for an event that combines the best of all worlds, look no further — the 12th Annual Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival is here! On Saturday, September 16th, 2023, the best blues and barbecue will come together at West Main and Church Street for an unforgettable experience. From smoky ribs to sweet jams and seasonings, there’s something for everyone.
Festival Activities & Live Music
The festival features a variety of activities sure to please music lovers and foodies alike. Starting on Thursday, September 14th, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. the event officially kicks off in Downtown Blue Ridge with free food and beverages while featuring food from Smokin E’s BBQ & drinks from Tipping Point Brewery.
Continuing on Friday, September 15th from 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Join the Kiwanis on the Blues Train and have a fantastic time while helping them raise money for the Ferst Readers. Board the beautiful Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad at the historic depot in downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia. The train ride consists of a one-hour journey along the Toccoa River and through the North Georgia countryside. During this time you will get to enjoy live entertainment in each car along with appetizers and soft drinks, as well as beer and wine. Upon returning to the train depot prepare yourself for the Block Party! Passengers will enjoy a boxed dinner with beer, wine, or soft drinks and listen to a live band.
Main Event - Blues & BBQ
On Saturday, September 16th the main event comes to Downtown Blue Ridge as the Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival gates open at 11:30 a.m. rain or shine tickets are $10, and kids 12 and under are FREE. All while you take in the sweet smell and mouth-watering taste of BBQ from local and regional cookers.
- Live music starts at Noon with the band Breaking Point until 1:00 p.m.
- Frankie's Blues Mission plays from 1:00 to 3:30.
- The Crossroads band starts at 3:30 p.m. and goes until 5:00 p.m.
- Ghost Town Blues Band from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Dewayne Dopsie & The Zydeco Hellraisers take the stage from 7:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.
Also returning is the legendary Kids Korner sponsored by the Boy & Girls Club of North Georgia. Children 12 & under can play for free. Kids over 12 can play for $5 and will receive a special bracelet that will allow them to enjoy the inflatable rides all day, while inside the festival grounds.
Reserve Your Place
Mark your calendar for this fun-filled event — the 12th Annual Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Festival. Get ready for some great music, mouthwatering barbecue, and plenty of fun — it's going to be an unforgettable time! Tickets are available at the gates or here. Reserve your perfect Blue Ridge Cabin Vacation Rental from GMCR to make your Blue Ridge BBQ & Blues Festival even better. See you there!
