BBQ Fest Across the River coming up with weekend of barbecue, music, family fun

Montgomery County Parks and Recreation is excited to announce the full schedule for the first-ever BBQ Fest Across the River.

By Michelle Hueffmeier

Montgomery County Government

September 29, 2025 3:31 pm

CLARKSVILLE, TN – Montgomery County Parks and Recreation is excited to announce the full schedule for the first-ever BBQ Fest Across the River, presented by F&M Bank. This two-day, family-friendly event will take place at RichEllen Park on Friday, Oct. 10, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 11, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free, with activities for all ages.

Friday night kickoff

The festival kicks off Friday evening with live music from 6-9 p.m. by local musician Lucian Greene, a variety of food trucks, and beer for sale. Families can enjoy the Family Zone, featuring inflatables, face painting, and other free activities.

A highlight of the night will be the arrival of the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile, a one-of-a-kind attraction for photos and fun. Guests can also cheer on contestants in a Hot Dog Eating Contest.

For barbecue enthusiasts, ‘Meat the Teams,’ powered by United Rentals, offers a chance to walk around, meet the pitmasters, and learn about their techniques as they prep for competition.

Saturday fun

Saturday, the celebration continues with live music from noon-2 p.m. by local band The 1980, food trucks, and beer for sale. The Family Zone will once again be open with free kid-friendly activities.

At 11 a.m., guests can take part in the People’s Choice Tasting – a chance to sample barbecue from the competing teams and vote for their favorite. Tickets are just $10 online or $12 at the door.

Other Saturday highlights include a Home Run Derby, more family fun, and the chance to catch SEC football on the big screen while enjoying great food and community spirit.

“There’s something for everyone at BBQ Fest Across the River,” said Montgomery County Mayor Wes Golden. “It’s a great opportunity for our residents to come together at one of our amazing county parks to enjoy delicious food, live music, and family-friendly activities. I’m excited to see this first year bring people together and look forward to many more years of this great community tradition.”

| MORE: For more Clarksville things to do, check out the Fall Fun Guide and the Clarksville Events calendar.

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