Cruise BBQ & Blues Oro Valley invites Tucson food lovers to a full day of classic cars, smoky barbecue and live blues music at Oro Valley Marketplace, 12155 N. Oracle Rd. The festival blends food culture, automotive design and community energy in one lively setting. Admission costs $5 per person, and children 10 and under attend free with paying adults.
The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7. Admission includes BBQ tasting, live music and classic car viewing. Military, veterans and first responders receive a $1 ticket discount with valid ID.
The event benefits the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance’s creative programs, including artist opportunities and community art experiences throughout Arizona. Tickets include access to the Tucson Foodie BBQ Competition, live blues and family-friendly activities.
What to Expect
Cruise BBQ & Blues Oro Valley delivers more than 200 classic and custom cars on display, each polished and ready for judging. Families can stroll the show lanes, vote in the People’s Choice competition, and admire craftsmanship under the Arizona sun.
Festivalgoers will taste barbecue from regional pitmasters competing in the Tucson Foodie BBQ Competition. Live blues performances set the soundtrack for the day and add to the festival atmosphere.
Tucson Foodie BBQ Competition
Art State Arizona now accepts applications for BBQ teams to compete in Tucson’s largest BBQ competition. The event runs in partnership with Tucson Foodie as part of Cruise BBQ & Blues Oro Valley.
Organizers will select up to 12 BBQ teams. Eligible concepts include traditional barbecue, regional styles, Korean BBQ, vegetarian or plant-based entries, and creative fusion concepts.
This juried competition features professional judges and public tasting. Organizers expect an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 attendees, offering high visibility and strong sales potential.
Cash Awards:
• Judges’ Choice: $300 for first place; $150 for second place
• People’s Choice: $300 for first place; $150 for second place
Winners also receive a free booth at a future Art State Arizona festival. The competition offers serious bragging rights for Southern Arizona pitmasters.
Experience and Family Fun
Children can enjoy interactive activities while adults explore artisan vendors and food offerings. The festival’s layout at Oro Valley Marketplace makes dining, shopping and music easily accessible to all ages.
Cruise BBQ & Blues Oro Valley continues the tradition of pairing local flavors with community celebration. Attendees use their People’s Choice vote to help select car show favorites while sampling regional barbecue.
For more information, visit artstateaz.org.
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