American | CARIBBEAN | SOUL FOOD VENDORS WELCOMEd

Join us for the Classic City Soul Food Festival, Saturday, August 22nd, 2026, from 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM at Union Fare Outdoor Marketplace for a powerful celebration of soul, culture, and community in the Classic City.

The Classic City Soul Food Fest is the launch of the Athens Anti-Discrimination Movement (AADM) Culture & Community Event Series—a new initiative designed to uplift, celebrate, and activate culture and diversity in Downtown Athens.

This festival is created to stimulate economic opportunity for black and minority vendors and community connection in downtown Athens. It brings together soul food, music, art, and local vendors to highlight the richness of our communities while creating space for families, creatives, and small businesses to thrive.

This vibrant experience will feature:

• Soul food (traditional and vegan options), Caribbean, and Latin food vendors and more welcomed
• Live performances featuring R&B, Soul, and high-energy music
• Local vendors, creatives, and community organizations
• A family-friendly atmosphere filled with joy, rhythm, and connection

Cookout Competition

BBQ & Smoked Chicken Cook-Off

Vendors and community members are invited to showcase their grilling skills in our BBQ & Smoked Chicken Cook-Off! Participants will prepare their signature chicken recipe on-site while competing for the title of Soul Food Fest Champion.

Participant Requirements

Each contestant must provide:

• Their own grill or smoker

• All cooking equipment and supplies

• Their own chicken and ingredients

• Seasonings, sauces, marinades, and preparation materials

• A safe food preparation area

• A tent or shade covering (recommended)

• Tables, serving supplies, and utensils

Competition Rules

• Chicken must be cooked on-site at the festival.

• Contestants may use charcoal, propane grills, or smokers.

• Each participant must prepare enough chicken samples for judging and People's Choice voting.

• Participants are responsible for following all food safety requirements.

• Contestants must keep their cooking area clean and organized.

Judging Categories

Judges will score entries based on:

• Flavor

• Tenderness

• Creativity

• Presentation

Awards

🏆 Soul Food Fest BBQ Champion
🏆 People's Choice Award
🏆 Best Sauce/Seasoning Award

Bring your best recipe, fire up the grill, and compete for community bragging rights!

RSVP now to secure your spot and be part of this unforgettable cultural experience.