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Smoke, Sizzle, and Soul: Why the 2026 Long Beach BBQ Festival is the Ultimate Foodie Pilgrimage

Want some of the best food in Los Angeles? Say less!!! Follow the smoke signals to the waterfront this May—an amazing food event in Los Angeles?? the Long Beach BBQ Festival is back, and it’s promising to be the smokiest, sauciest event of the Southern California summer.

Hosted by Axiom Kitchen in collaboration with Noah’s Arc Foundation, the 4th annual iteration of this beloved festival returns on May 23rd and 24th, 2026. Taking over the gorgeous Rainbow Lagoon Park, this isn't just a lunch rush; it's a two-day celebration of fire, flavor, and community.


If you are looking for the perfect way to celebrate National BBQ Month and kick off Memorial Day Weekend, look no further. Here is your editorial guide to navigating the meat-sweats and music at Long Beach’s premier culinary event.


A Culinary Tapestry of Smoke and Fire


Let’s be honest: you’re here for the food. The 2026 lineup reads like a Hall of Fame of West Coast barbecue. We aren’t just talking about standard burgers and dogs here. We are talking about low-and-slow brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and innovative fusion dishes that redefine the genre.


Get your palate ready for a gastronomic adventure featuring heavy hitters like:


  • Axiom Kitchen: Savor expertly crafted dishes that blend classic barbecue flavors with a modern culinary twist.

  • Big Brian's Meats: Indulge in mouthwatering smoked and grilled meats prepared with passion and expertise.

  • Casey Family BBQ: Enjoy family recipes passed down through generations, delivering rich and authentic flavors.

  • Chaudown Kitchen: Feast on bold, innovative barbecue creations with an international flair.

  • Just Wright BBQ: Experience smoked perfection with every bite from this fan-favorite BBQ spot.

  • El Guero y La Flaca: Discover a fusion of barbecue and Latin-inspired dishes that pack a flavorful punch.

  • Good Smoke Better Eats: Treat yourself to premium smoked meats and sides, crafted with care.

  • Smoked and Blazed BBQ: Relish the bold, smoky flavors from this barbecue haven.

  • Magilla's BBQ: Delight in hearty meals filled with savory barbecue goodness.

  • Q Bellie's BBQ: Offering classic barbecue dishes with a signature touch.

  • Midway City BBQ: A hometown favorite known for their tender, juicy cuts and rich flavors.

  • PS Smoked Meats: Enjoy perfectly smoked meats that capture the essence of great barbecue.

  • Wrigley's BBQ: A must-try stop for traditional barbecue lovers with a modern spin.

  • Nova's Craft BBQ: Providing artisanal, small-batch barbecue that you don’t want to miss.

  • Califas BBQ: Featuring West Coast barbecue favorites with unique recipes and techniques.

  • Smokin Rubens BBQ: Known for their perfectly seasoned smoked dishes and unforgettable sauces.

  • Sasa's Culinary Journey: Explore a fusion of barbecue styles and flavors from around the globe.

  • Fresh Off The Yacht Catering: Specializing in barbecue dishes with a touch of coastal inspiration.

  • Vinegar and Smoke: A celebration of tangy, vinegar-based barbecue that will delight your taste buds.

  • Cali Wings: Offering crispy and saucy wings in a variety of mouthwatering flavors.

  • Brother's Keeper BBQ: A proud purveyor of classic barbecue with rich, slow-cooked meats.

  • White Oak Craft BBQ: Serving high-quality barbecue with a focus on traditional smoking methods.

  • Rib Bones BBQ: Specializing in tender, flavorful ribs that will leave you wanting more.

  • Local Overlanding: Check out unique overlanding products while enjoying the festival atmosphere.

  • Dragon Fire BBQ: Bringing the heat with fiery barbecue dishes packed with bold spices.


Join us for a Memorial Day Weekend festival filled with Live Music & Entertainment, featuring talented local artists and so many more incredible food, retail, and craft vendors! Celebrate the holiday with amazing flavors, unique crafts, and memorable experiences!


Learn from the Masters


This festival distinguishes itself by offering more than just consumption—it offers education. Aspiring pitmasters can head to the demo stage to learn the art of the smoke.

The 2026 festival features exclusive meet-and-greets and cooking demos with celebrity pitmasters, including Logan Sandoval from Season 2 of Netflix’s BBQ Showdown. Watch the pros work, learn their secrets to the perfect smoke ring, and transform from a backyard amateur to a neighborhood legend.


Beats, Brews, and the Bay


The atmosphere at Rainbow Lagoon is set to be electric. A curated lineup of local bands will provide the soundtrack to your feast, while a live DJ keeps the energy high on the dynamic dance floor.

Need to wash down that spicy rib rub? Head to the VIP Lounges located near the stage. You can sip on curated selections from local breweries or indulge in sophisticated whiskey tastings. It’s the perfect blend of flavors to match the chill, waterfront vibes of Long Beach.


Fun for the Whole Family


While the whiskey is for the grown-ups, the festival is decidedly family-friendly. The grounds will feature carnival games for thrill-seekers and art exhibits showcasing the vibrant creativity of the Long Beach community. There is even a dedicated Kids' Area (though, ride the mechanical bull at your own risk!).


The Essentials: What You Need to Know


Ready to eat? Here is the logistical lowdown to ensure your festival experience is seamless.



Editorial Tips for a Smooth Festival Experience


To keep the vibes high and the lines moving, keep these tips in mind:

  1. Travel Light: Security will be checking bags at the door. Leave the large backpacks at home; small bags are best.

  2. Leave the Pup (Unless they are Working): Only service animals with vests are allowed. Emotional Support Animals will need to sit this one out.

  3. Hydrate & Sunblock: It’s an outdoor event, rain or shine.

  4. Come Hungry, Leave the Tupperware: No outside food or drinks allowed—trust us, you won’t need them with this vendor lineup.


Don't miss out on the event of the summer. Grab your tickets, bring your appetite, and prepare for a weekend where the only thing better than the view is the food.


I hope your hungry,

Matthew Tropp | Food Journal Magazine



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