It's a festival like no other! 

The Decatur BBQ & Bands Festival is a great way to indulge in sweet and tangy barbecue, soothe your soul with great music from local bands and artists, and embrace the charm of the South. 

Established in 2000 by the Decatur Preservation Alliance, it saved the old Decatur train depot at Candler and Howard Streets from demolition. Still, it needed funds to move the structure off the railroad right-of-way and secure it. They closed down Howard Avenue east of Candler, brought in a flatbed trailer to serve as a stage, gathered some bands, and threw a party with permission and support from the City.

The 2000 festival was a success, so DPA made it an annual event. They invited other organizations to participate along the way, including Decatur Active Living, the Community Center of South Decatur, and the Oakhurst Neighborhood Association (ONA).

As they gear up for their 20th anniversary, they are holding the festival on October 22, 2022, at Ford's BBQ & Harmony Park, Oakhurst Village, from 2:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. Save the date and clear your calendars! 

Present at the event are the sumptuous barbecues from Ford's BBQ, Taylor’ d BBQ, Lake & Oak BBQ, and Dunc’s BBQ Kitchen. There will be a limited barbecue selection for the vegans - we are all about openness and inclusivity here! After all, a barbecue is for everyone. 

Of course, a barbecue is never complete without refreshing drinks and beverages. Beers will be offered by Monday Night Brewing, presenting their wide selection of Blind Pirate, Dr. Robot Sour, Taco Tuesday Lager, Drafty Kilt Scotch Ale, Narwater Mango, and Guava Seltzer. There will also be rose, red wine, and grigio if you fancy them.

Desserts such as Kona Ice, King of Pops, Leather & Lace Iced Coffee are also available to finish the course with a sweet treat!

You can also bring beach chairs as you relax at the venue. However, if you plan to bring a tent, make sure to come early, as they will only allow a limited number of guests to set up tents.