For its 13^th year, one of Arizona’s largest barbecue events is expanding to Tumbleweed Park at 745 E. Germann Road in Chandler. The event will include a lineup of country stars, an enlarged VIP area, more than 30 barbecue pit masters and family friendly shows and activities.

The KNIX “Barbeque & Beer Festival” takes place on Saturday, March 26, from noon to 10 p.m. Its new home at Tumbleweed Park is a larger venue than those used in the past.

Forty8 Live!, one of the largest producers of special events in Arizona, is bringing back this award-winning event in partnership with KNIX Country 102.5.

The KNIX “Barbeque & Beer Festival” has earned back-to-back awards for Arizona’s “Outstanding Event of the Year” in 2012, 2013 and 2015. 

“We have an incredible lineup of some of the hottest names in country music, as well as legendary barbecue pit masters for this annual signature event in Chandler,” said David Horen, director of Events at Forty8 Live!.

There will be live music from multiple CMA and ACM winners including multiplatinum recording artists Lee Brice, Parker McCollum, Kameron Marlowe and Jacob Morris.

In addition to the barbecue and entertainment, the event will feature a massive March Madness lounge, Dock Dogs Competition, X-Game Skateboard and BMX stunt shows, a kids’ zone and much more.

An expanded VIP area includes catered barbecue, private bars, shaded area, standing pit access in front of the stage, restroom suites, VIP exclusive entertainment, soft seating, fire pits and a commemorative lanyard. With more than 30 barbecue pit masters, beer, spirits and novelty food items, the 13th annual event will offer a full day of music, family entertainment and food with drinks to wash it all down.

“We’ve worked so closely with everyone from KNIX to the city of Chandler and we couldn’t be more excited to drive the tens of thousands of family based country music and barbecue fanatics to this beautiful and centralized location, delivering a true festival experience for all,” said Mike O’Donnell, director of partnerships at Forty8 Live!.

Tickets to the event are available online in advance for $20 general admission, $30 at the door and $225 VIP. Military and first responders get $15 off at the door with ID and kids 12 and under are free. Admission does not include food and beverage.

A portion of proceeds from the event will be donated to Greater Cause Foundation, which offers critical funding to a variety of Arizona causes, including the Children’s Cancer Dream Network, Military Assistance Mission, 100 Club of Arizona, Salt River Wild Horse Management Group, Matthew’s Crossing Food Bank and Heidi’s Village.

Purchase tickets at forty8live.com/chandlerbbq.