The West End Arts District invites the community to celebrate the 9th Annual Blues, Brews & BBQ on Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Washington Park, 740 Central Ave. in Alameda. The free, family-friendly festival will bring together nationally acclaimed blues artists, local craft breweries, barbecue vendors, artisans, and hands-on activities for all ages in one of the East Bay's signature community celebrations.
Since its launch in 2015, Blues, Brews & BBQ has become a beloved annual tradition, drawing music lovers, food enthusiasts, and families from throughout the Bay Area for an afternoon of big sound and big flavors. Hosted by the nonprofit West End Arts District, the festival is unmistakably Alameda, celebrating the community’s vibrant arts and culinary culture while supporting year-round arts programming throughout the city.
Headlining this year's festival is acclaimed guitarist and vocalist Chris Cain, whose soulful style and masterful musicianship have earned him recognition as one of today's premier blues artists. The lineup also features powerhouse vocalist Terrie Odabi, whose stirring vocals and magnetic stage presence have made her one of the Bay Area’s standout blues performers. Returning festival favorite Aki Kumar will bring a special edition of his weekly blues jam to the Blues, Brews & BBQ stage, joined by guest artists Marina Crouse and Jules Leyhe for a one-of-a-kind set celebrating the depth, range, and joy of the Bay Area blues scene.
Beyond the music, festivalgoers can enjoy mouthwatering barbecue prepared by local pitmasters. Adding even more flavor to this year's celebration, Evergood Sausage will commemorate its 100th anniversary at Blues, Brews & BBQ. Founded in 1926 in San Francisco, Evergood has become a Northern California icon, known for its handcrafted sausages and deep roots in Bay Area barbecue traditions. Festivalgoers will have the opportunity to join the centennial celebration while enjoying one of the region's most beloved local food brands. Blues, Brews & BBQ celebrates bringing families together around the grill, making this year's event an especially memorable celebration of local heritage and flavor.
Pairing the bold flavors from the grill are seasonal selections from regional craft breweries including Alameda Brewing, Faction Brewing, Anderson Valley Brewing, Drakes Brewing, Oakland United, and many more. Wine selections will feature Alameda’s very own Urban Legend Cellars, plus a selection of festival cocktails and alcohol free options.
Bay Area artisans and community vendors will showcase locally made products, while the popular Family Zone—hosted by Ozzy's Music Academy with support from local organizations—offers interactive music, art, and creative activities for children throughout the day. Swings & Wings, an Alameda favorite playland for kids, will bring their fun to the park encouraging child-led play and family musical activities.
Washington Park provides the perfect backdrop for the festival, offering expansive green space, playgrounds, and scenic San Francisco Bay views. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and make a day of enjoying great music, outstanding food, and community festivities. Blues, Brews & BBQ is more than a concert in the park — it is a late-summer tradition that brings neighbors, families, music lovers, and visitors together for a day that feels uniquely Alameda.
Admission is free, and while tickets are not required, attendees are encouraged to RSVP online to receive festival updates and be automatically entered for prize drawings. For additional information, volunteer opportunities, sponsorships, or to RSVP, visit the West End Arts District website.
