If you like to live your life meaty, the Brisbane BBQ Festival is an absolute must-do event on the Brisbane foodie calendar. The weekend brings together more than 15 expert barbecue vendors serving up all manner of meaty morsels – from slow-cooked brisket to finger-lickin’ ribs and pulled pork to juicy sausages, the gang’s all going to be there. Thirsty patrons can head to the open-air bar to sip and savour craft beer, whiskey cocktails, bourbon and wine. Competitive munchers can get around the hot wing-eating contest, where only the strongest (and hungriest) will survive. Adding to the atmosphere will be live music, killer entertainment and even a guest spot from ‘Jolene’, the largest offset smoker in the southern hemisphere.

For those who take the art of barbecue a little more seriously, the Brisbane BBQ Festival is the perfect place to indulge. You can nerd out (and fill up) with the BBQ Judge Experience, a ticket that gives you the power to not only taste all of the competition-grade morsels getting cooked up, but also to cast your vote in who should get a share of $17,000 worth of prizes. Punters can also check out the Barbecue Masters demos, a hotbed of pro activity where you can pick up top tips on all things ‘queing from the best in the business. Want all of the perks without the pressure of judging? A VIP table ticket is your best bet – think feasting platters, ice-cold drinks, table service and even a cheeky goodie bag to take home.

Ready to bust out the wet wipes? The Brisbane BBQ Festival hits the sporting fields at Victoria Park on the July 27–28 weekend – pick up your tickets here.