15th Annual · April 25, 2026 · Bessemer, Alabama
Bob Sykes
BBQ &
BLUES Fest
DeBardeleben Park · 11am Gates Open · Music Noon–6pm
2026 Music Line-Up
Live Blues.
One Stage.
11am Gates Open · Live Music: Noon to 6pm
Li'l Ed & the Blues Imperials
4:55 PM – 6:00 PM
Selwyn Birchwood
Karen Wolfe
Dexter Allen
Rick Harris
National Anthem & Opening Prayer — EMCEE: Ms. Aretta Woodruff
The Details
Everything you
need to know.
- Gates open at 11am. Festival is 12–6pm.
- Award winning national & local blues musicians on one stage
- Enjoy legendary Bob Sykes Bar B Q
- Located at DeBardeleben Park, 1700 3rd Ave North, Bessemer, AL 35020
- Bring a chair or blanket — set up your spot for the day
- Activities for the entire family of every age
- Art and Vendor area
- Sponsorship opportunities available
- Festival benefits local charity
- 8 and under are free with ticketed adult
- General Admission: $10.00 online · $15.00 day of festival
- Food and drinks sold separately
- Beer and wine sold with proof of ID
- No tents, pets, or coolers allowed
15th
Annual Festival
Festival Gallery
Moments from
past festivals.
What People Say
Voices from the festival.
“I can't wait till next year. It has become a first class festival.”
— David Kovakis
“That was a life-affirming day.”
— Eric Velasco
“Thank you so much for the opportunity to set up a booth at the event! Hoping we get another opportunity again next year!”
— Loretta — Paparazzi Jewelry
“I honestly enjoyed myself. Can't wait til next year!”
— SAFY Sponsor
“Great job!”
— Owner of Bright Star
“Thank you for having me, it was awesome and I want to participate next year as well.”
— Pork Skin Vendor
“Best day of the Spring so far for me. We had a BLAST.”
— Festival Attendee
“We go to this festival every year and have always loved the talent and the food. This event improves the image of our city because the park is a perfect venue. Thanks Sykes family for sponsoring this every year.”
— Festival Attendee
“Good music! Good food! Just fun!”
— Festival Attendee
“Always a fun family day! Great music, great food, great folks :)”
— Festival Attendee
“Awesome music! Beautiful day in the neighborhood! God bless the Festival this year!”
— Festival Attendee
“This my 3rd year going to the festival! Van puts together a great blues line up — and what can I say, the BBQ speaks for itself!”
— Festival Attendee
Our Sponsors
Thank you
to our partners.
Presenting Sponsors
Official Sponsors
Patron Sponsors
Hospitality Sponsors
Media Partners
Opportunity
Become a Sponsor!
Becoming a sponsor is a great way to engage face to face with your audience in Bessemer and the Birmingham, Alabama area.
The festival has been chosen for numerous years as one of the top food festivals in Alabama.
There is something to do for the entire family including a large kids corner with activities and games.
Besides great music, the festival offers a variety of booths including arts and crafts, outdoor exhibits, and a diverse selection of vendors selling tempting offers.
Festival Charity
Giving back
since 2010.
2026 Beneficiary
Grace Klein Community
Through FeedBHM, Grace Klein Community rescues surplus food and redistributes meals to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity across the Birmingham area, mobilizing volunteers to serve with dignity.
The Bob Sykes BBQ & Blues Festival brings the community together around great food, live music, and practical ways to serve neighbors. Festival attendees are invited to visit the charity table to learn more about how they can get involved.
Past Beneficiaries (Since 2010)
- Ady's Army
- The Bessemer Education Enhancement Foundation
- Bessemer Service League
- Caring Men and Caring Women
- Children's of Alabama
- Clay House
- Community Foodbank of Central Alabama
- Hands on Birmingham
- Latch and Live Foundation
- Red Mountain Grace
Vendors
Join Us as
a Vendor.
Vendor opportunities are available for the 2026 festival. Fill out the following applications and return to secure your spot at DeBardeleben Park.
Location
DeBardeleben Park.
1700 3rd Avenue North · Bessemer, AL 35020
April 25, 2026
Don't miss
a single note.
General Admission $10 online · $15 day of festival
8 & under free with ticketed adult