32ND ANNUAL FESTIVAL - DOWNTOWN PADUCAH, KY
BBQ on the River
Community - Charity - BBQ
The Countdown is on! Its Almost Time for the 32nd Annual BBQ on the River.
A taste of what BBQ on the River has to offer!
Porkstock is the official kickoff to BBQ on the River and a favorite night for locals to gather and celebrate the start of one of Paducah’s biggest weekends. Held in the heart of the festival on the Wednesday night before the weekend begins, Porkstock features a BBQ-centered meal, live music, and a laid-back atmosphere that brings the community together. The event also serves as a fundraiser for Paducah Main Street, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and revitalizing downtown through events, business development, and community partnerships. Proceeds from Porkstock help fund year-round efforts that keep downtown vibrant, supporting local businesses and creating experiences that bring people together in the heart of Paducah.
We can’t wait to see you for this year’s Porkstock!
A Paducah Tradition Since 1995
ABOUT THE FESTIVAL
What is PorkStock?
BBQ on the River is an annual festival held each fall in downtown Paducah, Kentucky on the Ohio riverfront. The event brings together the region’s best entertainment, southern dessert creators, and of course, good, Southern BBQ. The tradition is a beloved community event, drawing regional and out-of-state guests — all for the overarching purpose of raising money for local charities.
Paducah Main Street is now the organization running the festival for 2026. Tyler Parker, a tenured BBQ on the River barbecue vendor, is leading the charge to continue the tradition and charity giving of this festival. While the leadership has changed, the mission is staying the same in supporting the local charities and feeding hungry people.
CHARITY
Every Bite Gives Back
BBQ on the River vendors are required to choose a charity of their choice to receive a portion or all of their proceeds, as the goal of this festival is to give back to the community and improve the quality-of-life of our residents.
Smoke, Flavor, and Friendly Competition
THE FOOD
Barbecue is the forefront of this festival, with more than 80,000 pounds of chicken and pork grilled, smoked, cooked, and eaten each year. Whether it’s by the pound, on a sandwich, or in nachos, dozens of local restaurants and barbecuers cook up barbecue to serve about 50,000 people over the three-day event. Other BBQ on the River staples include cajun corn, ribbon fries, fried oreos, and funnel cakes.
COMPETITION
Compete for the Crown
Each year, vendors and barbecue chefs may compete in an array of categories, including Best Pulled Pork, Best Whole Hog, Best Ribs, Best Chicken, Best Sides, and more. Awards are given in each category, allowing festival goers to try the best barbecue in years past!