Bessemer, Alabama – Bob Sykes BBQ & BLUES Festival Returns April 25, 2026
The annual Bob Sykes BBQ & Blues Festival, presented by the City of Bessemer and Coca-Cola United, is set for April 25, 2026, from 12–6 p.m., with gates opening at 11 a.m.
The event will bring together the best in blues music and the legendary flavors of Bob Sykes Bar-B-Q at the scenic DeBardeleben Park in historic downtown Bessemer. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets and settle in for a full day of live performances.
Since 2010, the festival has grown into a local favorite, attracting attendees of all ages. Second-generation owner and pitmaster Van Sykes noted that the event continues to expand each year thanks to strong community and sponsor support. Bessemer Mayor Kenneth Gulley highlighted the festival’s importance, emphasizing its role in bringing barbecue, music, and community spirit to downtown Bessemer.
The festival has repeatedly been recognized by AL.com as one of Alabama’s top food festivals. In addition to live music and barbecue, attendees can enjoy:
- A large kids’ corner with activities and games
- Arts and crafts booths
- Outdoor exhibits
- A wide variety of vendor offerings
Children eight and under are admitted free with a ticketed adult. General admission tickets are $10 in advance (online or at the restaurant) and $15 on the day of the event.
Since its founding, the festival has supported numerous Alabama charities, including:
- Ady’s Army
- The Bessemer Education Enhancement Foundation
- Bessemer Service League
- Caring Men and Caring Women
- Children’s of Alabama
- Clay House
- Community Food Bank of Central Alabama
- Hands On Birmingham
- Latch and Live Foundation
- Red Mountain Grace
The 2026 charity beneficiary is Grace Klein Community. Through its FeedBHM initiative, the organization rescues surplus food and redistributes meals to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity across the Birmingham area, mobilizing volunteers to serve with dignity. Festival attendees can visit the charity table to learn how to get involved.
2026 Festival Line-Up
- 11:00 a.m. – Gates Open
- 12:00 p.m. – National Anthem & Emcee: Ms. Aretta Woodruff
- 12:10 – 1:10 p.m. – Rick Harris
- 1:20 – 2:20 p.m. – Dexter Allen
- 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. – Karen Wolfe
- 3:40 – 4:45 p.m. – Selwyn Birchwood
- 4:55 – 6:00 p.m. – Li’l Ed & the Blues Imperials
Event Details:
15th Annual Bob Sykes BBQ & Blues Festival
📍 DeBardeleben Park – 1700 3rd Avenue North, Bessemer, AL 35020
🌐 BobSykesBlues.com
A full day of food, music, and community connection awaits in downtown Bessemer.
