BBQ and Barrels represents the culmination of 45 years of a cultural tradition in Owensboro and Daviess County. It is the celebration of our past, our present, and our future, bringing together two of Owensboro’s greatest traditions – authentic, unparalleled Owensboro barbecue and historic Kentucky bourbon. In 2023, with the explosion of bourbon back into western Kentucky and Green River Distilling Co. playing a prominent role along the Bourbon Trail, event organizers introduced BBQ and Barrels – a celebration of two of Owensboro’s rich traditions! We brought the focus back to its roots- true Kentucky barbecue- while adding in elements of Kentucky bourbon. Guests love the familiarity of the traditional festival, including the Backyard BBQ Cookoff, church cooking teams, live music, carnival rides, and more barbecue vendors than you have ever seen in downtown Owensboroall open to the general public! The Owensboro Convention Center is the home of the “Barrels,” offering ticketed bourbon tastings, food pairings, and educational classes. Join us in Downtown Owensboro on May 10 & 11, 2024, and Savor the Flavor of BBQ & Barrels!