ROMANIA

GRILLFEST BBQ ARENA 2025: An unprecedented live culinary spectacle in Bucharest

Over 30,000 participants took part, between June 20 and 22, in GRILLFEST BBQ Arena 2025 powered by Auchan, the largest barbecue festival in Europe, created in Romania. For three days, the National Arena became the European capital of authentic tastes for the grilling community and the place for the most spectacular live culinary demonstrations.

Posted on Jul 29 ,00:20

GRILLFEST BBQ ARENA 2025: An unprecedented live culinary spectacle in Bucharest

"GRILLFEST BBQ Arena has already reached its third edition and we see how, from year to year, not only the number of participants increases, but also the appetite for authentic gastronomic experiences. GRILLFEST is more than barbecue - it means community, culture, relaxation and the joy of sharing a premium meal with others. The atmosphere this year was incredible and motivates us to take the festival even higher".

Eugen CAPRA, CEO GRILLFEST BBQ

The event brought together over 125 exhibitors, 10% of which were international, from countries such as Germany, Brazil, Bulgaria, Italy, Spain and Portugal. The public had the opportunity to explore 8 international BBQ styles, as well as specific products starting from delicious Texan brisket, Pulled beef,  Buffalo wings and Brazilian picanha, to Argentinian asado style cooking, Korean barbecue or Balkan reinterpretations.

Dozens of recipes. Tastes from all around the world

Over 10 tons of meat were prepared during the festival, in emblematic styles and recipes. Pork was the star of the edition, with premium varieties such as Mangalita, Duroc, Black Angel and  Noble Pork.

The top culinary favorites of the audience included: Angus Beef Burger, Texas-style Smoked Brisket, Bison Burger, Grilled Picanha, Lamb Skewers and Pastrami.

The audience was captivated by the GRILLFEST BBQ Academy area, a space dedicated to spectacular cooking shows with fire and smoke and professional equipment and advanced techniques demonstrations. Here, enthusiasts witnessed the preparation of premium recipes, such as: Wagyu steak, Crocodile steak, Angus beef, Duroc pork, Black Angel, Noble pork, Lamb steak and many other surprises.

The festival also hosted the first chili eating contest in Romania, a spicy challenge that quickly went viral among participants.

Live music, fun and activities for all ages

GRILLFEST BBQ was more than just food. The atmosphere was completed by an exceptional line-up:

On the Main Stage: Andra Gogan, Damian Draghici, Killa Fonic, Puya, Alex Velea, Grasu XXL, Azur

On the Fire Stage (DJ): Livio, Mosfarai, Cotoraci, Baku, Pol, Sir Alex, Big Pizza, Ashpot, Fere

The festival also offered an amazing area for children, brand activation, educational sessions, as well as initiatives to combat food waste and promote food & drink sustainability.

GRILLFEST BBQ Arena 2025 was a true celebration of barbecue and community. Created in Romania, GRILLFEST BBQ has quickly become an international landmark and is consolidating its position as the largest barbecue festival in Europe, dedicated to those looking for authentic tastes and who love the art of cooking with fire and smoke.

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