Big Grill Festival, a prominent celebration of live-fire cooking, will take place from 14 to 17 August in Herbert Park, Ballsbridge, Dublin. Held annually in this leafy urban park, the event draws food enthusiasts, families, and barbecue aficionados to experience a diverse programme of culinary demonstrations, dining, and entertainment. As Europe’s largest barbecue and food festival, it showcases Irish and international chefs, offering visitors a chance to explore global grilling traditions while enjoying Dublin’s vibrant summer atmosphere.
The 2025 programme features over 20 restaurants and 60 chefs, with highlights including Michelin-starred Texan barbecue from chefs John Bates and Ali Clem, Northern Thai dishes from Achara, and wood-fired duck from Hang Dai. The Bastecamp stage hosts live demonstrations on grilling, smoking, marinating, and butchery, with experts like Genevieve Taylor and Nick Weston sharing insights, alongside tastings and giveaways.
Brewcamp offers drinks-related talks and pairings, featuring 20 Irish craft breweries and cocktail bars. Visitors can sample exclusive dishes, such as Gaucho-style beef ribs from Bah33º or Turkish-inspired fare from Reyna, while enjoying live music, DJs, and brass bands.
The Little Grillers area, open Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 4:30pm, provides free activities for children under 12, including face painting and workshops. Additional events include chilli-eating challenges, long-table feasts, and OFFSIDE dining experiences, such as a wild dinner with foraged ingredients. Tickets, available via the festival’s website, are required for entry, with session-specific or Whole Hog options; organisers recommend public transport due to limited parking.
Visitors can expect a lively yet accessible atmosphere in Herbert Park, with a focus on high-quality food and community engagement. The festival’s layout is step-free, with disabled facilities available, ensuring inclusivity. Attendees should plan their visit, as the site clears between sessions for cleaning, and tickets are non-refundable. Dublin’s cultural attractions, such as the nearby National Gallery or Merrion Square, offer opportunities to extend the day, while the festival’s focus on local and international cuisine provides a unique culinary experience. Weather updates and the full line-up will be available closer to the date on www.biggrillfestival.com.
The Big Grill Festival was founded in 2014 by Andy Noonan and Brian Clancy, who aimed to bring the global barbecue scene to Ireland, spotlighting live-fire cooking’s versatility. Initially hosting five restaurants and 10,000 visitors, it has grown to attract over 20,000 attendees annually, earning a reputation as a leading food festival. Andy Noonan, the current festival director, has driven its expansion, including plans for a London edition in 2025, reflecting his ambition to elevate barbecue culture internationally. The festival’s growth has been supported by sponsors like Asahi Super Dry and local businesses, fostering culinary exchange between Ireland and global food scenes.
Since its inception, the Big Grill has evolved from a niche event to a cultural highlight, celebrating Ireland’s food scene alongside international influences. Past festivals have featured notable figures like Andy Ricker and Pat Martin, with 2025 marking the event’s 11th year. Its emphasis on ethical ingredients, such as locally sourced meats and foraged produce, aligns with Ireland’s growing focus on sustainable dining. The festival’s success reflects Dublin’s status as a culinary hub, offering visitors a chance to engage with both traditional and innovative barbecue techniques in a relaxed park setting.
