Event Intro
Tucson's BBQ competition blends classic cars, blues music, and culinary talent. Enjoy a day filled with food, fun, and creativity.
| Tucson’s Largest BBQ Competition.Over 150 Classic and Custom Cars.Blues Music on the Main Stage. |
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| Cruise, BBQ & Blues Festival is more than a car show—it’s a celebration of creativity in every form. Streets lined with more than 150 rolling works of art. Smokers firing as pitmasters compete for top honors. Live blues setting the rhythm all day long. Cold beer, artisan vendors, and interactive art experiences bring it all together in one unforgettable winter festival. Every ticket includes access to live music, family activities, the Tucson Foodie BBQ Competition, and a vote in the People’s Choice Car Award. |
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| BBQ COMPETITION |
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| Tucson Foodie BBQ CompetitionArt State Arizona is now accepting applications for BBQ teams to compete in Tucson’s largest BBQ competition, presented in partnership with Tucson Foodie. We are selecting up to 12 BBQ teams, including traditional, regional, Korean BBQ, vegetarian or plant-based, and creative fusion concepts. Cash Awards:Judges’ Choice: $300 (1st Place) / $150 (2nd Place)People’s Choice: $300 (1st Place) / $150 (2nd Place) Winners also receive a free booth at a future Art State Arizona festival. This is a juried competition with professional judging and public tasting, drawing an estimated 3,000–5,000 attendees. High visibility, strong sales potential, and serious bragging rights. |
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| CLASSIC CAR COMPETITION |
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| Car enthusiasts are invited to showcase their vehicles alongside more than 170 classic and custom cars and compete for artist-made trophies across more than 30 award categories, including Best Paint, Best Engine, and People’s Choice. Registration Includes: Two adult admission lanyards, Coffee, morning snacks, and bottled water, Five raffle tickets (over $2,000 in prizes), Commemorative dash plaque, One limited-edition event T-shirt, Reserved exhibitor parking, Eligibility for all judged awards Standard Pricing (January 1–26, 2026) Pavement Parking: $55 Dirt Parking: $40 No day-of-event registrations. Space will sell out at the festival. All vehicles must arrive by 9:15 AM and remain on-site until 3:00 PM |
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| LIVE BLUES ON THE MAIN STAGE |
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| Live music is the heartbeat of the festival, with blues performances throughout the day that blend soulful tradition with electrifying modern sound. 10:00–11:00 AM – Garrett James & the Wanderers11:30 AM–12:45 PM – Bob Corritore & Jimi “Primetime” Smith1:15–2:30 PM – The Xcelerators From raw Delta-inspired riffs to gritty blues-rock grooves, the main stage brings energy, movement, and soul to the entire festival. |
| FAMILY ACTIVITIES & KIDS ZONE |
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| Cruise, BBQ & Blues Festival is designed for all ages, making it an easy and welcoming day for families. Family features include:Kids arts and crafts tentHands-on art activitiesJumping castleSafe, community-friendly environmentChildren 10 and under receive free admission. |
| LOCATION & PARKING |
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| The festival takes place at Oro Valley Marketplace, located at the southwest corner of Oracle Road and Tangerine Road. Parking is free throughout the shopping center, with approximately 4,300 parking spaces available, including ADA and motorcycle parking. |
| CREATIVE PLACEMAKING |
| At Art State Arizona, we believe art lives everywhere—on the canvas, in the garage, in the kitchen, and on the stage. Cruise, BBQ & Blues Festival brings it all together in a high-energy, community-powered celebration that welcomes everyone. |
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