From May 26 to June 1, 2025, gardens, parks, and patios across the UK will come alive with the smell of sizzling sausages and smoky ribs as the country celebrates the 29th annual National BBQ Week.
🔥 What Is National BBQ Week?
National BBQ Week is one of the UK’s most delicious traditions. Since its launch in 1997, this week-long celebration has promoted “Better BBQ” and encouraged millions of people to take their grilling skills to the next level. Whether you’re a flame-grilling novice or a self-proclaimed pitmaster, the event is all about enjoying great food, fresh air, and the company of others.
The 2025 edition runs from Monday, May 26 to Sunday, June 1, offering the perfect opportunity to kick off the summer season with outdoor feasts and culinary creativity.
🍔 This Year’s Theme: Gastro Grilling & Alfresco Dining
Coinciding with the 24th Gastro Alfresco, National BBQ Week 2025 places an even greater emphasis on the joy of gastro grilling—a trend that blends gourmet food with the casual atmosphere of a garden cookout. Gastro Alfresco is a celebration of all things al fresco, encouraging families, friends, and foodies to embrace outdoor dining like never before.
Together, these events will showcase:
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Innovative BBQ recipes from top chefs
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Healthier grilling options and plant-based alternatives
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The latest BBQ gadgets and grilling gear
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Social media challenges and interactive content
🎉 Events & Highlights
Over the years, National BBQ Week has included a wide variety of promotions and roadshows, reaching more than 250,000 consumers across the UK. For 2025, the campaign continues this successful formula with:
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Live BBQ Roadshows: Expect appearances at large outdoor events such as the Royal Bath & West Show and other country fairs.
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Sampling & Sponsor Giveaways: From sauces and rubs to drinks and eco-friendly utensils, the week is filled with free samples and competitions.
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Media Buzz: TV spots, newspaper features, and TikTok BBQ challenges are all part of the excitement.
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Online Resources: The official website offers free recipes, BBQ tips, food safety advice, and eco-friendly grilling guides.
🌭 Why BBQ Matters More Than Ever
With more people valuing home-cooked meals and outdoor socialising post-pandemic, the BBQ has become a staple of British summers. National BBQ Week taps into this shift by:
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Promoting sustainable and locally-sourced ingredients
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Supporting healthy lifestyles with balanced BBQ menus
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Encouraging community spirit and family togetherness
And it’s not just about meat anymore—2025’s campaign puts a spotlight on vegan BBQ recipes, gluten-free sides, and international flavours, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
🔧 BBQ Tips for 2025
If you’re planning to take part in National BBQ Week, here are a few tips to up your grilling game:
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Prep Like a Pro: Marinate meats overnight and chop veggies in advance to save time.
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Temperature Is Key: Use a thermometer to make sure your food is safely cooked.
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Go Beyond Burgers: Try halloumi skewers, smoked aubergine, or pineapple slices.
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Stay Safe: Keep raw and cooked items separate and always have water nearby.
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Be Green: Use lumpwood charcoal, avoid single-use plastics, and compost your scraps.
📅 Mark Your Calendar
With warmer days on the horizon, National BBQ Week 2025 offers the perfect excuse to fire up the grill and get outside. Whether you’re hosting a garden party, heading to a festival, or simply treating yourself to a sizzling steak on a Tuesday evening, this week is your invitation to indulge in the joys of BBQ.
For more details, BBQ inspiration, and to get involved, visit: www.nationalbbqweek.info