Taste the Western Kentucky BBQ Belt: The Reindeer Farm BBQ Festival in Bowling Green
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; mostly standing and light walking on gentle farm terrain.
Overview
Experience the smoky, savory flavors of Kentucky’s Western BBQ Belt at The Reindeer Farm BBQ Festival in Bowling Green. Sample top-notch BBQ, enjoy local craft vendors, and vote for the People’s Choice award at this family-friendly outdoor event.
BBQ FESTIVAL
Day Pass
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About This Adventure
Join us for the inaugural BBQ festival at The Reindeer Farm, featuring mouthwatering Kentucky BBQ, live music, and family-friendly activities! Sample delicious dishes, vote for the People’s Choice BBQ winner, and enjoy encounters with adorable animals. With crafts, games, and entertainment, this event promises unforgettable fun for everyone!
The Reindeer Farm is excited to announce our first annual BBQ festival! We are very excited to partner with Kentucky Pitmasters, B.H. James Distillers, Carriage House Vineyards and local craft vendors. This will be a family-friendly event, where guest can experience The Reindeer Farm and use their sampling tickets to try great Kentucky BBQ.
All Tickets/Non Samplers: Visit LIVE reindeer from outside the fence, alpacas, mini cows, mini horses, mini donkeys, mini pigs, holland lop rabbits, chickens and Mack the Mule! Play at the indoor playground or visit the gift shop. Coloring station, outdoor games, children's movies and LIVE music all day! Allie Collen is headlining the event. Enjoy a game of corn hole, mega chess, the bounce house or cozy up by the fire pit! Don’t forget your camera there will be many photo opportunities! Let the kids ride the Reindeer Express or gather around Karaoke and sing your favorite songs! Holiday HOOPS, Snowball Fight (dodgeball) and BBQ!! Free wine and bourbon tasting for guests of legal age (Drinks by the glass and bottles available for purchase). Make sure to check out and shop with all our craft vendors! Tickets are good for the entire day, come anytime during our normal business hours and stay as long as you like until close!
BBQ Samplers: You can enjoy the above and will receive 6 sampling tickets to try 2oz portions of any meat sample being offered at any of the 5 BBQ vendors. Additional sampling tickets available for purchase. Meals will also be available for purchase from vendors on site. All sampling guests will be given a ticket to cast their vote for the People’s Choice BBQ award. YOU will be helping us crown the winner!
LIVE MUSIC Line Up Keith Kinkade 11:00 - 1:00 Riley Schiff 1:00 - 3:00 Allie Colleen 3:00 - 5:00 Sydney Adams 5:00 - 7:00
Reindeer Encounter not included with this ticket. If you are wanting to meet the reindeer up close, you need the VIP BBQ FESTIVAL ticket.
Adventure Tips
Bring cash for additional samplers and vendors
While initial tasting tickets are included, extra sampler tickets and some vendor items require cash or card on site.
Wear comfortable shoes for farm exploration
The festival spans open fields and farm paths, so sturdy footwear helps you enjoy the full environment.
Arrive early for parking and best vendor selections
Parking can fill up quickly, and early arrivals score first pick of sampler foods from vendors.
Plan for sun protection in summer months
This event takes place outdoors, so sunscreen, hats, and hydration are essential under the Kentucky sun.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-tailed deer commonly roam near the farm’s edges
- Various songbirds inhabit the surrounding woodlands
History
The Western Kentucky BBQ Belt is renowned for its unique style of slow-smoked meats, deeply rooted in local traditions dating back several generations.
Conservation
The festival supports sustainable farming practices by partnering with local producers who emphasize environmental stewardship in their operations.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bowling Green
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
The festival takes place on grassy farm grounds with uneven terrain requiring supportive footwear.
summer specific
Sunhat or cap
Protect yourself from strong sun exposure during all-day outdoor activities.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated while walking around the farm and sampling barbecue.
summer specific
Light jacket or sweater
Mornings and evenings can be cool, so layering keeps you comfortable throughout the day.
spring specific