For the 73rd year, the Laveen BBQ brings together neighbors, small businesses, artisans and more to celebrate the region’s rural roots and serve up some of Arizona’s very best barbecue.
“We are one of the largest all-volunteer community festivals in the state,” says Stephanie Hurd, who has been an integral part of the BBQ since 2015. “And this year, we are so happy to be bringing back pit-cooked barbecue. We love all our food vendors but having the meat slow-cooked in a pit in the ground is an important part of our tradition. We’ll officially be the Laveen Pit BBQ again this year!”
The 2025 BBQ takes place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22, at Cesar Chavez Park, 35th Avenue and Baseline Road, in Laveen Village. In addition to pit barbecue, the event added an extra hour to allow for the growing number of visitors. Organizers predict around 6,000 people will browse more than a hundred vendors, food booths, games, and entertainment stages.
“Over the years we’ve expanded the Fun Zone to be larger and for all ages. This is the first year since it’s expansion that it will be free,” Hurd said. From obstacle courses to bounce houses, to rock climbing, Fun Zone is a family-favorite at the Laveen BBQ.
Wendy Flood, who works with local businesses who sponsor the event, said a free Fun Zone is the result of having four VIP sponsors this year: Clear Channel, Laveen Veterinary Center, McCarthy Building Companies, and Beyond Borders & Co.
“Entrance to the BBQ is always free. But we are so excited that families can enjoy the Fun Zone this year without having to pay,” says Antwan C. Davis, president and CEO of Beyond Borders & Co. “It’s what the Laveen BBQ is all about – serving our community.”
The Laveen Community Council, a nonprofit, puts on the Laveen BBQ each year as its primary fundraising event. Proceeds from the BBQ go toward other community events, college scholarships for local high school seniors, youth programs, and community organizations.
About the Laveen BBQ
The first Laveen BBQ took place in 1952 when a group of rancher’s wives, the Cow Belles, organized the event as a fund-raiser to fight against polio. It took place at the Old Laveen School on the southwest corner of Dobbins Road and 51st Avenue, now the home to the Laveen Education Center. While Laveen has grown more urban, the annual Laveen BBQ keeps alive the area’s agricultural history. Learn more at the Laveen Community Council’s website, laveen.org.
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