The King of the County BBQ & Music Festival returns to Martinez Waterfront Park this Father’s Day weekend, bringing three days of barbecue, live music, family activities, and community fun.
Hosted by the Martinez Chamber of Commerce and presented by Martinez Refinery Company, the annual event has become a local tradition, attracting more than 20,000 visitors each year.
Admission and parking are free. Attendees can enjoy live music, award-winning barbecue, food vendors, local wine and beer, arts and crafts, a kids’ fun zone, carnival rides, and a variety of exhibitors.
Festival hours are 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.
One of the festival’s biggest attractions is the King of the County BBQ Competition, held Saturday and Sunday. Around 30 barbecue teams from across Northern California will compete each day for top honors. Returning champions, family teams, and first-time competitors will battle for trophies, prizes, and bragging rights, with entries judged through a blind tasting process.
Live entertainment is scheduled throughout the weekend, featuring performances by Ruby Party Band, The Great Space Coaster, Garage Land Rodeo, Southbound 101, The New Frantics, The Landbirds, Rusty Giraffe, and Evan Thomas & The Brotherhood.
Whether you’re coming for the barbecue, live music, shopping, or family-friendly atmosphere, the King of the County BBQ & Music Festival offers plenty to enjoy throughout Father’s Day weekend.