40 South African and international pitmasters. 40 stories. One unforgettable day of flavour.
Stellenbosch, Western Cape, 22 September 2026 – Visit Stellenbosch has joined the South Africa BBQ Festival 2026 as an official destination partner, welcoming a celebration of live-fire cooking to Sandringham Farm in Stellenbosch on 10 October 2026.
At the festival’s heart, more than 40 South African and international pitmasters will share their distinctive techniques and fire-cooking traditions. From low-and-slow smoking and open-flame grilling to methods passed down through generations, the South Africa BBQ Festival pays deep homage to the many ways the world cooks with fire.
“Stellenbosch has always been a place where people connect around the table,” said Annemie Liebenberg, CEO of Visit Stellenbosch. “The South Africa BBQ Festival extends that table into the open air and around the fire, inviting visitors to meet the makers, stay for the conversation and experience something unexpected. Whether it is a first taste, a new connection or a skill learned beside the flames, this is Stellenbosch as you may never have imagined it before.”
For Visit Stellenbosch, the partnership reflects the destination’s positioning, “Unexpected Firsts. Unforgettable Moments”, offering new and returning visitors a more considered way to experience Stellenbosch: slowly and intentionally, through the people and flavours that give the destination its distinct character.
A world of fire cooking, gathered in Stellenbosch
Festival founder Biggy Smallz will be joined by pitmasters and food personalities including Pete Goffe-Wood, Ashley Dokter-Mosotho, Borries Bornman, Marvyn Buys of Smoked by Buys, Niel van Zyl, Richard Bosman, Nic van Wyk, Jay Maan of Mr Braai Guy, Yash Singh and Taahir Abader of The Iron Tummies, Meat Ranger, and fire-cooking duo Laaika and Natalie.
Live performances will unfold alongside the food experience, allowing visitors to find their own rhythm throughout the day. The programme includes Freshlyground, Die Heuwels Fantasties, Jack Parow, Matthew Mole, Crimson House, Anica Kiana, Wicked World Band, DJ Dazz and Synth Peter.
Family activities, children’s entertainment and a considered selection of food vendors and exhibitors will add further layers to an experience centred on human connection.
The South Africa BBQ Festival 2026 will also create opportunities for culinary students and young food professionals to assist experienced pitmasters. They will gain practical exposure to live-fire cooking, teamwork and large-scale food preparation while building valuable industry relationships.
“More than a festival, this is a rare gathering of global fire-cooking traditions, right here in Stellenbosch,” said Liebenberg. “We want visitors to leave with more than a good meal. We want them to carry a lasting memory and a desire to discover more of Stellenbosch. Even in a familiar place, there is always a first waiting to be found. Let your curiosity lead and come allow Stellenbosch to completely
surprise you.”
Event details
South Africa BBQ Festival 2026
Date: 10 October 2026
Venue: Sandringham Farm, Stellenbosch, Western Cape
Experience: More than 40 South African and international pitmasters, live-fire cooking, music, family entertainment, food vendors and exhibitors
Ticket information: www.sabbqfestival.co.za
