Good Times. Great BBQ. Greater Impact.

No, tickets must be purchased for entry.

• Gates open at 12 PM.
• All ticket holders will need to obtain a wristband and have bags checked by security before entering the festival.
• There will be “in and out” privileges with an event wristband. All bags will be rechecked upon reentering.
• Children 12 and under are free with a paid adult.
• There is no reserved seating, including in the VIP area.
• Sealed packaged food and sealed plastic bottles are allowed.
• No hard-sided coolers.
• No pets, weapons and sharp objects allowed per City of San José ordinances. “Service Dogs” are permitted with proof of certification. Service dogs with proper identification permitted.
• Low-back folding chairs and blankets are allowed. Low back lawn chairs typically have a back height ranging from 20 to 28 inches.
• No unauthorized vendors permitted.

Present your ticket and ID to security and receive your “over 21+” wristband. Once through security, you will receive your tasting / drink tickets.

Yes! Children ages 12 and under are welcome to attend and receive complimentary entry when accompanied by a ticketed adult. Please note that kids’ tickets include event admission only and do not include BBQ or beer tastings. Children must remain with an adult at all times.

Children over 12 years of age will need to purchase either an entry ticket or a BBQ-only ticket to enter the event.

We will have plenty of BBQ options from multiple food vendors.

Unfortunately, with the exception of service animals, pets are not permitted at the event.

BBQ & Brews is on rain or shine!

The event is conveniently located in downtown San Jose, with access from Cal Train and the VTA. We also encourage anyone who plans on drinking to consider ride share options and/or have a designated driver.

Drink ticket sales end strictly at 6:00pm. Last pour is at 6:30pm. Please plan on using your tickets before that time. We have a strict policy of ending liquor service on time.

All volunteers will receive a confirmation email with instructions. Volunteers when onsite can check in at the HIF Staff tent.

No. All beer must be consumed on festival grounds. Signs are posted indicating event boundaries.

To help ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all guests, the following bag policy will be in effect:

• Small personal bags, purses, and backpacks no larger than 12” x 12” x 6” are permitted.
• All bags are subject to inspection upon entry and at any time while on event grounds.
• Clear bags are preferred but not required (if you want to require clear bags, I can rewrite this).
• Diaper bags and medical bags are allowed but must be inspected.
• Please avoid bringing unnecessary items to help speed up entry.

Prohibited bags include:

• Large backpacks, duffel bags, or luggage
• Hard-sided containers or coolers
• Hydration packs, rolling bags, or oversized totes

The event reserves the right to deny entry to any bag or item deemed unsafe or inappropriate.

No drones allowed. The police are pretty serious about this one.

Yes – strollers are welcome; please note they are subject to inspection at entry.

All vendors accept credit cards and mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.). Cash is not accepted.

San Jose Police will be on-site to handle any issues that may arise. Housing Industry Foundation Staff in Event Staff Shirts can also assist with any questions. Anyone found publicly intoxicated will be asked to leave the event. Please drink responsibly.

Beer and Wine pourers will not serve alcohol to anyone that is unruly, visibly intoxicated, or without a 21 and over wristband.