Country music artist Chase Matthew will headline the main stage at the 2026 BBQ & Barrels festival, bringing a free concert to downtown Owensboro on May 9.
Festival organizers announced the headlining performance this week, confirming that the show will be open to the public at no cost. A limited number of pit passes will be available for purchase.
Matthew shared the news directly with fans in a recent Facebook video, confirming his return to Kentucky and the Owensboro festival.
“Hey Kentucky. What’s going on, y’all, it’s Chase Matthew,” he said. “Y’all have been asking forever, when am I doing another show in Kentucky? And I have your answer. May 9, I’m going to be in Owensboro, Kentucky this year, 2026 at barbecue and barrels. I believe it’s a free show. So y’all come out there, come see us. You can find more info at Chase Matthew tickets dot com or barbecue and barrel social media. We love you guys.”
BBQ & Barrels is scheduled for May 8 and 9 on the Owensboro Convention Center front lawn and surrounding downtown area. Friday night entertainment will feature DJ Shay’s Dance Party, followed by Matthew’s headlining performance Saturday night. Additional entertainment and festival details are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
The event is sponsored in part by Owensboro Racing & Gaming, which is serving as the main stage sponsor for this year’s festival.
BBQ & Barrels traces its roots to the International Bar-B-Q Festival, which began in 1979 as a local barbecue competition centered around Owensboro’s long-standing tradition of mutton, burgoo and slow-cooked meats prepared by church and community teams. Over the decades, the festival has grown into one of the region’s largest annual events, combining barbecue, bourbon tastings, live music and family-friendly activities.
More information about the festival, including pit passes and updates to the entertainment lineup, is available at bbqandbarrels.com.
