Smorgasburg LA Brings Epic 3-day BBQ Showdown To Santa Anita Park Memorial Day Weekend

Smorgasburg LA Brings Epic 3-day BBQ Showdown To Santa Anita Park Memorial Day Weekend

In addition to world class racing, Smorgasburg BBQ Invitational returns as part of an array of activities this weekend including a Memorial Weekend Carnival and Corgi Races

Arcadia, CA (May 21, 2026) – Smorgasburg LA, the largest weekly open-air food market in the United States, is firing up the grills for a smoky celebration of epic proportions at the Smorgasburg BBQ Invitational, taking place in the Infield of historic Santa Anita Park over the three-day Memorial Day Weekend.

From Saturday, May 23 through Monday, May 25, six talented BBQ teams will compete in a high-stakes showdown featuring bold regional styles and creative fusions. Attendees can sample the best of Texas, California, Filipino, and Cambodian barbecue traditions while enjoying carnival rides, music, games, top- tier horse racing, and the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Anita Park.

Competing Teams:

Saulitos – Texas-inspired with a touch of L.A. culture Shourhai BBQ – Classic Texas Style BBQ and a Taste of Japan Full Send BBQ – Filipino-Texan BBQ Fusion Battambong BBQ – Cambodian-Texan BBQ Nia & Jags – Central Texas Style BBQ Domestic BBQ – California Style BBQ

The judges will be Michelle & Andrew from Moo's Craft BBQ, Winnie from Smoke Queen BBQ, Ken & Michelle from Now Serving, Zach Brooks from Smorgasburg LA, and more to be announced. One team will be crowned champion and earn a coveted free spot at Smorgasburg’s BBQ Day later this summer, along with the official Smorgasburg Invitational Trophy and a photo in the Winner’s Circle. A People’s Choice Award will also be presented based on attendee votes.

The BBQ vendors will be available to the public from noon until they sell out all three days. Admission gates open at 11a.m. all weekend. General parking is available for free using Gate 6, admission through the Infield is $5. Children 17 and under are admitted for free. Fans can save by purchasing special bundles online early at santaanita.com/events.

Fans can enjoy a full afternoon of live horse racing with a 10-race card Saturday beginning at 1 p.m. while enjoying the Smorgasburg BBQ Invitational. Other activities for the whole family throughout the weekend include the Memorial Weekend Carnival and the Summer Corgi Nationals on Sunday.

For more details and to purchase, visit santaanita.com/events.