Music Notes
Enjoy almost six hours of great live jazz music and delicious barbeque at the 15th Annual Bob Sykes BBQ & BLUES Festival on Saturday, April 25, 2026. The event takes place at DeBardeleben Park in historic downtown Bessemer and gates open at 11am. Be sure to bring your chair, or blanket and set up your spot for the day to enjoy six different talented blues musicians. Since 2010, the event has provided funding for Alabama local charities. The 2026 charity beneficiary is Grace Klein Community, www.gracekleincommunity.com. 
2nd generation owner and pit master of Bob Sykes Bar B Q Van Sykes says, “Each year the festival grows and we couldn’t do it without our sponsors and the support of the community.” City of Bessemer Mayor Kenneth Gulley says “The Bob Sykes BBQ and Blues Festival has been a great event for the City of Bessemer. We’re looking forward to many more great years of barbecue and blues music in downtown Bessemer.” The festival has been recognized for numerous years as one of the top food festivals in Alabama. Besides music and good food, enjoy a large kids’ corner with activities and games and a variety of booths including arts and crafts and outdoor exhibits.
Children eight and under are free with a ticketed adult. Purchase general admission tickets for $10 at www.bobsykesblues.com or visit Bob Sykes Bar B Q Restaurant in Bessemer. Day of the festival tickets are $15. The entertainment line-up includes Ms. Aretta Woodruff, Rick Harris, Dexter Allen, Karen Wolfe, Selwyn Birchwood, and Li’l Ed & the Blues Imperials. Click for details on how you can enter BCF’s April Issue Reader Giveaway to receive a family four packs of tickets to the event. †
