Kansas City’s ultimate celebration of bold BBQ, diverse cuisine, and Midwest culture
Set against the gritty, iconic backdrop of the West Bottoms. Taking place May 1–2, 2026, this two-day urban food and music festival brings together the region’s best pit masters, top chefs, craft brewers, and live performers for an unforgettable weekend of taste, sound, and community. The West Bottoms will be transformed into a festival grounds like no other — red brick streets, towering concrete pillars, urban murals, BBQ smoke, and high energy. Whether you're a hardcore BBQ head, a foodie, or just in it for the vibes, KC Smoke & Flavor Fest is the place to be.
The KC Smoke & Flavor Master Series BBQ Competition is a full Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) sanctioned Master Series event, bringing together top pitmasters to battle it out across all four KCBS meat categories. Set in the heart of Kansas City, this competition showcases world-class barbecue skill, authenticity, and the bold flavors that define the city’s legendary food culture.
The Flavor of KC is a 40’ x 80’ culinary pavilion showcasing Kansas City’s hottest restaurants, chefs, and food innovators through samples, live demos, and storytelling. Guests can taste signature dishes, experience interactive cooking showcases, and walk away with a true flavor of KC’s diverse dining scene.
The vendor lineup showcases Kansas City’s best, bringing together a diverse mix of local businesses, artisans, and creators that capture the city’s energy and culture. From unique crafts and boutique products to mouth-watering food and innovative services, every vendor adds a layer of excitement and authenticity.
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