BBQ Festival in Peschiera del Garda: the art of fire within the walls of Forte Papa

The culture of barbecue between history and innovation

From June 18th to 21st, 2026, the monumental complex of Forte Papa in Peschiera del Garda hosts the BBQ Festival. The choice of the location, an imposing defensive work set within the context of the Venetian fortifications declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, offers a setting of great architectural fascination. The ancient stone structures provide a rigorous and austere frame, ideal for hosting an event that celebrates the culture of fire.

An international benchmark

The event aims to elevate competitive barbecue from an amateur practice to a true gastronomic discipline. The event is not limited to a simple exhibition, but creates a space where technical expertise, research into raw materials, and the tradition of slow cooking converge in a balance between spectacle and professional rigor. The goal is to make a discipline based on extended times and precise temperature control accessible to the public.

The prestige of The War of Barbeque

The core of the days consists of The War of Barbeque contest, a competition of international resonance that attracts professionals from the sector. The competition is regulated by the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS), the body that defines the world standards for the category. Participating teams are called upon to compete on specific cuts of meat, applying low & slow smoking and cooking techniques that require advanced technical skills and a deep knowledge of the chemical and biological reactions involved in the process.

Gastronomic excellence and competition

During the four days, visitors can witness the preparation of iconic specialties such as brisket and pulled pork, observing the team dynamics that animate the competition stations. The competition serves as a privileged observatory on the evolution of culinary innovation in an outdoor setting. Strict adherence to the KCBS regulations ensures that every trial is evaluated according to criteria of uniformity, taste, and texture, elevating the entire Festival to a fundamental reference point for anyone wishing to delve into the gastronomic potential of professional grilling and smoking.

Logistical information

The BBQ Festival is scheduled from June 18th to 21st, 2026 at Forte Papa, Peschiera del Garda. The opening hours for the public and access methods, including ticketing and detailed programs for visitors, can be consulted through the official portal of the event. It is recommended to constantly consult the information channels for updates regarding the competition calendar and the side activities planned during the event.