Get ready for the hottest summer event in Cary, North Carolina. The Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival returns to Koka Booth Amphitheatre for two epic days on August 1 and 2, 2025. With a special VIP session kicking off Friday from 6 to 10 PM and the main event on Saturday from 12 to 6 PM, this festival is Cary’s favorite weekend celebration of craft beer, fine bourbon, and mouthwatering barbecue. It's the perfect blend of Southern hospitality and foodie culture.
What You’ll Taste and See
At the heart of this festival is the all-you-care-to-taste experience. Attendees can enjoy over 60 beers, including local craft brews from the Cary beer garden. There will be more than 40 bourbons to sample, featuring rare barrel-aged spirits and North Carolina distilleries.
Barbecue lovers can feast on pulled pork, ribs, brisket, chicken, sausages, and visit the Shrine of Swine, which features whole hogs cooked on-site. On Saturday, festival-goers will also find exotic smoked meats such as bison, alligator, and lamb.
The festival also features tasting seminars, where distillers, brewers, and pitmasters lead sessions on everything from bourbon production to barbecue techniques. It's the ultimate event for bourbon lovers and barbecue fans in North Carolina.
Ticket Options and Pricing
The Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival offers five ticket levels to fit every kind of attendee.
Friday Night General Admission from 6 to 10 PM is $45 and includes a souvenir sampling glass, unlimited beer and bourbon tastings, and live entertainment.
Friday VIP Admission is $75 and includes all the above plus a barbecue dinner platter and exclusive access.
Saturday General Admission from 2 to 6 PM is $45 and includes tastings and entertainment.
Saturday VIP Admission from 12 to 6 PM is $75 and includes early access, additional tastings, and VIP perks.
The Grand Poobah Two-Day Ultimate Access ticket is $159 and includes entry to all sessions, a BBQ dinner, a souvenir glass, fast entry, and a goodie bag with a t-shirt and lanyard.
Designated driver tickets are available at the gate for $25 and include entry without alcohol tastings.
Music, Games and Entertainment
The festival features a packed entertainment schedule. Live bands perform rock, blues, and bluegrass on the main stage. Attendees can enjoy carnival-style games like cornhole, giant Jenga, Connect Four, and more at the Cochon Carnival.
The Vendor Village is a favorite stop for many guests, offering Breweriana collectibles, hot sauces, BBQ gear, handmade crafts, and a cigar tent.
This is more than a tasting event. It’s a full-blown summer festival experience in Cary with something for everyone.
Location and Parking Information
The festival takes place at Koka Booth Amphitheatre, located at 8003 Regency Parkway in Cary, NC. Parking is free in amphitheatre-owned lots, which open one hour before each session. Preferred parking passes can be purchased in advance, and accessible parking spaces are available near the venue entrance.
The venue operates with a clear bag policy. Attendees can bring lawn chairs and small umbrellas but should leave coolers, large bags, and drones at home. The event is held rain or shine, and no refunds or exchanges are offered due to weather.
Who Should Attend
The Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival draws people from Cary, Raleigh, Durham, and throughout the Triangle region. It's a great option for those looking for a summer festival in North Carolina that combines food, drink, music, and outdoor fun.
Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, bourbon aficionado, or BBQ fanatic, this event delivers. It’s also a great option for couples, groups of friends, or even families looking for a daytime activity. Children under 12 are admitted free with a ticketed adult, although the event is primarily designed for adults.
Why This Festival Stands Out
Variety of Beer and Bourbon
With over 60 beers and 40 bourbons, including many from North Carolina breweries and distilleries, the tasting options are exceptional.
Authentic Southern Barbecue
Guests can enjoy barbecue from top pitmasters, including pulled pork, ribs, brisket, and the Shrine of Swine’s whole hog roast. Exotic meat tastings on Saturday give adventurous eaters something new to try.
Distiller Seminars and Tasting Theater
Festival-goers can attend educational sessions led by master distillers and brewers. These intimate seminars dive into the history, process, and tasting techniques that define the world of craft spirits.
Beautiful Outdoor Venue
Koka Booth Amphitheatre offers a spacious, scenic setting. Located in Cary’s Regency Park area, it provides shade, open lawn areas, and a perfect summer atmosphere for a festival.
All-Inclusive Sampling
Your souvenir glass gives you access to unlimited tastings throughout your session. No tickets, no tokens—just sample and enjoy.
VIP Perks
Skip the lines and enjoy early access, a special BBQ dinner, and access to private lounges with VIP or Grand Poobah tickets.
Tips for a Great Festival Experience
Choose VIP tickets if you want extra time, fewer crowds, and exclusive tastings. These usually sell out early.
Plan to arrive early to explore vendors, grab food, and get a good spot near the stage.
Take advantage of the tasting theater sessions to learn and taste from experts.
Stay hydrated and take breaks between tastings. There are water stations available.
Bring a designated driver or plan your ride through a car service.
Check the entertainment schedule so you don’t miss your favorite band or seminar.
Dress in light clothing and comfortable shoes. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Use a clear bag that meets venue policy to bring essentials like ID, sunscreen, and water.
What Past Attendees Say
Previous guests rave about the beer selection, barbecue quality, and laid-back atmosphere. Many say it’s the best summer event in Cary and return year after year.
Quotes from past festival-goers include:
"This is the best festival for bourbon fans in the Triangle. The tasting theater was my favorite."
"The Shrine of Swine was incredible. You haven’t had barbecue until you’ve had whole hog like that."
"It’s my favorite summer event in Cary. I always discover a new beer or bourbon to love."
"This is the one event I tell all my friends they have to attend."
Common Questions
Are kids allowed?
Yes. Children 12 and under are free with a paying adult. However, the event is designed for adults.
Can I leave and re-enter the event?
Yes. Re-entry is allowed with a hand stamp.
Is the event cash-only?
No. The venue is cashless. Bring a card for food and vendor purchases.
Can I bring my own chair or blanket?
Yes. Lawn chairs are permitted and recommended.
What happens if it rains?
The event takes place rain or shine. No refunds or exchanges will be given.
Is there a limit to how much I can taste?
All tastings are included and unlimited. Drink responsibly.
Final Thoughts
The Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival is a must-attend event for summer 2025 in Cary, North Carolina. With a wide variety of craft beer and bourbon, authentic Southern barbecue, live music, games, and shopping, it’s one of the best festivals in Wake County.
Whether you’re coming from Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, or visiting the Triangle region, this event offers a perfect weekend of flavor and fun. It’s one of the top beer festivals in North Carolina and an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves BBQ and bourbon.
Make your plans now, grab your tickets, and get ready for a sizzling summer event. Cary’s Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival delivers bold flavors, good times, and great memories.
