Barbecue on the River: A Homecoming Hoedown
September 25-27, 2025
Experience the smoky flavors, live music, and community spirit of Barbecue on the River, a beloved Paducah tradition! Each year, this festival brings together the region’s best pitmasters, serving up mouthwatering barbecue while supporting local charities. Stroll along the scenic riverfront, savoring three days of delicious eats, craft vendors, and entertainment!
The official festival schedule and map are below. For more information, like detailed vendor lists, visit the Barbecue on the River website.
Barbecue on the River Parking Information
Parking is free in downtown Paducah. Please note, due to footprint of this year's festival, the parking lot on N 2nd. Street/Broadway and the Farmer's Market parking lot will be closed. Guests are encouraged to use the 3rd Street and Kentucky Avenue lot or available street parking throughout downtown (please pay attention to posted signage). A drop-off lane for guests who are pregnant, elderly, or disabled will be offered at The National Quilt Museum, and limited handicap accessible parking will be available nearby on Monroe St.
Barbecue on the River Map
Click here to download the map.

Barbecue on the River Vendor List
Barbecue on the River Festival Schedule
Thursday, September 25
11 AM - 10 PM | Vendors open
5 PM - 10 PM | Live music
Music Lineup:
5 PM - 6:30 PM | Gina Caturano
7 PM - 7:45 PM | Blood Creek
7:45 PM - 9 PM | Comedown Kings
Friday, September 26
11 AM – 11 PM | Vendors open
5 PM – 10 PM | Live music
Music Lineup:
5 PM - 5:20 PM | Loveless (Allen Music Student Band)
5:20 PM - 5:40 PM | Come Monday (Allen Music Student Band)
5:40 PM - 6 PM | Soldiers of Fusion (Allen Music Student Band)
6:30 PM - 8 PM | Knucklehead
8:30 PM - 10 PM | Corey Evitts Band
Saturday, September 27
11 AM – 11 PM | Vendors open
4 PM | BBQ on the River Award Ceremony (Main Stage)
11 AM – 10 PM | Live entertainment all day
Music Lineup:
11 AM - 11:50 AM | Time on the String presents: Templar
12:20 PM - 1:20 PM | Haas Holiday
1:50 PM - 2:50 PM | Melanie Davis & the Madness
3:10 PM - 4 PM | Wildflower Honey & the Hot Biscuits
4 PM - 5PM | BBQ AWARDS
5 PM - 6:30 PM | Lew Jetton & 61 South
7 PM - 8:30 PM | Cat Daddy'O
9 PM - 10 PM | Swamp Donkey
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