Cookin’ on the Creek BBQ Festival

Fire up your appetite for one of Edisto’s tastiest annual traditions—the Cookin’ on the Creek BBQ Festival! This early-summer celebration brings together pitmasters, families, food lovers, and festival-goers for a smoky, flavorful weekend along the beautiful marshes of Edisto Island. Featuring BBQ tastings, live music, food vendors, and the official SC BBQ Association–sanctioned competition, Cookin’ on the Creek is a highlight of the season.

Whether you’re a serious BBQ enthusiast or simply looking for a fun weekend event, this festival delivers mouthwatering food and classic Lowcountry hospitality.

Event Overview

The Cookin’ on the Creek BBQ Festival typically takes place over a Friday & Saturday in late spring or early summer, often in May. The two-day event includes:

Friday Night

• Festival kickoff

• Live music & entertainment

• Food & drink vendors

• A relaxed, family-friendly pre-party on the water

Saturday

• SC BBQ Association–sanctioned competition

• BBQ tasting from multiple pitmasters

• Sampling wristbands (varies by year)

• Awards ceremony

• Family activities & entertainment

Exact dates, teams, and ticket details vary each year, but the festival consistently draws both locals and visitors eager for great food and good fun.

Location

Bay Creek Park
3706 Docksite Road
Edisto Island, SC 29438

The waterfront setting at Bay Creek Park provides the perfect backdrop for live music, smoke rising from the pits, and families enjoying the breezy coastal atmosphere.

Parking is available nearby, though the park area can get busy—arriving early or carpooling is recommended.

BBQ Competition

Saturday’s competition is the heart of the festival, sanctioned by the South Carolina BBQ Association (SCBA). Teams from around the region compete for bragging rights, trophies, and points toward statewide rankings.

Expect:

• Pork BBQ judged by certified SCBA judges

• Blind tastings

• Flavorful variations from pitmasters

• A chance for the public to sample entries (depending on festival rules each year)

If you’re a BBQ lover, this is one of the best opportunities to try multiple versions of traditional South Carolina barbecue in one place.

What to Expect

Live Music & Entertainment

Enjoy local and regional bands, DJs, or acoustic acts throughout the weekend.

Food & Drink Vendors

Beyond the BBQ samples, look for festival snacks, sweets, beverages, and kid-friendly treats.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Kids will find open spaces to play, shaded areas, and activities depending on the year’s vendor lineup.

Vendors & Community Booths

Local artisans, nonprofits, and community partners often participate, giving the event a true Edisto flavor.

Tips for Festival Day

• Bring a lawn chair or blanket for the music and seating area

• Wear light layers—May temperatures can vary from breezy to warm

• Hydrate and bring sunscreen

• Expect lines during peak tasting times

• Stay for the awards ceremony—it’s always full of local pride and excitement