Visitors and locals are invited to experience one of Northeast Florida’s most flavorful traditions as the Jimmy Jam BBQ Slam returns to the St. Johns County Fairgrounds. Now celebrating its eleventh year, this beloved community gathering blends the unmistakable aroma of slow-smoked barbecue with a full day of music, friendly competition, and family fun — all in support of a meaningful local cause.

Discover a Day Filled with Flavor

From the moment guests arrive, the air fills with the scent of hickory, oak, and creative spice blends crafted by pitmasters from across the Southeast. The festival’s Kansas City Barbeque Society–sanctioned competition brings together teams of all experience levels, each working toward top honors in classic categories like chicken, ribs, brisket, and pork.

Visitors who want to join in the tasting experience are welcome to sample barbecue during the People’s Choice window, when teams offer a limited number of bites for public voting.

The Chili & Chowder Cook-Off invites guests to explore another layer of comfort food tradition. From spicy, slow-burn chilis to creamy coastal chowders, competitors bring their best to this friendly—and delicious—competition.

A Festival Designed for All Ages

Throughout the fairgrounds, guests will find plenty of ways to enjoy the day. Live music from local and regional artists sets an energetic backdrop for browsing food and retail vendors, while the Jimmy Jam BBQ Slam Cornhole Competition welcomes players of all skill levels. Crowd-pleasing extras include lumberjack shows, Disc Connected K9’s dog shows, and a kids’ zone with inflatables for younger guests.

A Celebration That Gives Back

More than a food festival, the Jimmy Jam BBQ Slam honors the legacy of James “Jimmy Jam” Wray, a beloved local remembered for his generosity, his love of cars and NASCAR, and above all, his love of barbecue. This nonprofit fundraiser carries his spirit forward: funds raised have helped neighbors facing serious illness, housing hardship, and other challenges, and a portion of ticket sales supports a local partner organization. Attending the festival offers guests an opportunity to enjoy a memorable day while giving back to the community.

Plan Your Visit

General admission tickets are available online, with early bird pricing of $15. Tasting tokens for barbecue, chili, and chowder may be purchased on-site, and ticket holders can also enjoy discounts at local attractions including the Pirate & Treasure Museum, Colonial Oak Park, The Tasting Tours, and Sabrage Boat Tours. The St. Johns County Fairgrounds are located at 5840 S.R. 207 in Elkton, just a short drive from St. Augustine’s historic attractions, scenic landscapes, and welcoming accommodations — making the festival an ideal addition to a weekend getaway.

Join the Tradition

Whether savoring award-winning barbecue, tapping along to live music, or simply enjoying time outdoors with family and friends, the Jimmy Jam BBQ Slam offers a warm, community-driven experience rooted in local pride. Visitors are encouraged to explore the event, meet the teams behind the smokers, and discover why this flavorful celebration has become a cherished annual tradition.

For more information, including schedules, vendor details, competitor registration, and tickets, visit www.jimmyjambbqslam.com.