Make a Full Day of Your Visit to the Annual DuPont BBQ Cookoff
The Annual DuPont BBQ Cookoff returns to Clocktower Park every August, and it’s the perfect reason to turn a weekend of championship barbecue into a full South Sound adventure. Hosted by American Legion “Pat Tillman Memorial” Post #53, the free-admission event draws thousands for KCBS-sanctioned competition, BBQ samples, live music, a beer garden, vendor marketplace, and free kids’ activities like inflatables, face painting, and games. All proceeds support local veterans and youth programs.
The good news is that once you’ve sampled world-class barbecue and explored Vendor Row, there is plenty more to see and do. Whether you’re arriving early, taking a break between BBQ tastings, or extending your stay into the evening, DuPont offers activities for visitors of all ages. Nearly everything recommended here sits within about five miles of Clocktower Park, so you can walk, short-drive, or hop the free event shuttles and still stay close to the smoke and the fun.
The Heart of the Action: Clocktower Park Itself
Clocktower Park is more than the event venue. Its namesake tower, open turf, playground, picnic tables, restrooms, and paved paths make it a natural gathering spot before or after sampling. Arrive early to claim a shady spot, let kids burn energy on the play equipment, or simply people-watch as the aroma of brisket, ribs, and pulled pork fills the air.
Step Back in Time at the DuPont Historical Museum and Historic Village
Just a short walk or very short drive away, the DuPont Historical Museum tells the story of this unique place – from Native American roots and the Hudson’s Bay Company’s Fort Nisqually to the DuPont Company’s explosives plant (which gave the town its name) and the modern planned community of Northwest Landing. Exhibits include artifacts, photos, a dynamite train display, and a “Life in a Company Town” permanent installation. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.
Walk or Hike the Sequalitchew Creek Trail
One of the best family-friendly outdoor options starts practically at Clocktower Park’s doorstep. The Sequalitchew Creek Trail is an easy out-and-back route that winds through a forested canyon, past historic markers and old railroad remnants from the dynamite-train era, and down to a quiet beach on Puget Sound. The core trail is roughly 3 miles round-trip with modest elevation change; the longer version via the park stretches to about 6 miles if you want more time outdoors.
It’s dog-friendly on leash, good for strollers on the more level sections, and packed with wildlife viewing – birds, the occasional deer, and lush greenery. If you’ve indulged in a few extra BBQ samples, the trail provides the perfect excuse to stretch your legs. Pack water, bug spray (especially in warmer months), and a picnic to enjoy at the beach.
Catch a Breeze in Steilacoom
One of the prettiest little waterfront towns in Washington sits just five minutes north of DuPont. Steilacoom wraps around the eastern shore of the Sound and rewards an unhurried afternoon. Stroll the historic downtown, browse the antique shops and small galleries, then head to Saltar’s Point Park. This tucked-away gem offers 500 feet of saltwater shoreline, picnic shelters, a footbridge over the railroad tracks, and views across the water to Ketron and Anderson Islands – a perfect spot to let kids skip stones while grown-ups decompress.
Stretch Your Legs at Fort Steilacoom Park
South of DuPont in Lakewood, Fort Steilacoom Park is one of Pierce County’s best-kept secrets: 340 acres of trails, open fields, and forest anchored by Waughop Lake, which is encircled by a flat, paved 5K loop that’s ideal for strollers, scooters, and little legs. There’s a playground, a historic cemetery and orchard from the old territorial fort, and on clear days, sweeping views of Mount Rainier and the Olympics. Pack a frisbee or a kite – the big open hillside is made for it.
Fuel Up at Local Pubs and Restaurants
When hunger strikes before (or after) your BBQ samples, you don’t need to leave town. Most of these spots cluster along Wilmington Drive and nearby streets, well within a couple of miles of the park.
- McNamara’s Pub and Eatery A longtime local favorite, McNamara’s Pub & Eatery offers a welcoming Irish pub atmosphere. Expect shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, bangers and mash, burgers, and a solid beer selection in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
- Farrelli’s Pizza Located just minutes from Clocktower Park, Farrelli’s is well known for its wood-fired pizzas, family-friendly environment, and comfortable dining room. It’s ideal for groups or families looking for a delicious and easy meal.
- Bruceskis Sports fans and casual diners often enjoy Bruceski’s Pizza & Bar for its relaxed atmosphere, pizza selections, buffalo wings, and beverages.
- Sushi Pho You If you’ve had your fill of smoked meats and are looking for something completely different, Sushi Pho You, a highly rated local restaurant, offers sushi, pho, teriyaki, and other Asian-inspired dishes.
- Bliss Small Batch Creamery No summer outing is complete without dessert. Bliss Small Batch Creamery serves handcrafted ice cream and is a favorite stop for both residents and visitors.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Day
Come for the brisket, stay for the community, and discover why thousands of visitors continue making the DuPont BBQ Cookoff a summer tradition year after year. After all, great barbecue is even better when it’s part of a great day.
- Getting around: Free parking and shuttles ease congestion. Many restaurants and the museum are walkable or a short hop from the park.
- Timing: Sample hours are limited (typically midday into afternoon), so plan outdoor or museum time around them. Kids’ activities at the Cookoff are free and ongoing.
- Sample strategically. Championship BBQ samples are bought with $3 BBQ Bucks (most samples run just 1 to 2 Bucks), so grab a booklet early and pace yourself across categories – brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and chicken.
- Shop Vendor Row. The vendor marketplace is a destination of its own, packed with handcrafted goods, specialty foods, and local artisans.
- Keep the kids busy. Children’s activities and games are free, and the inflatable zone will burn off any lingering energy from the trail.
- Relax in the beer garden. Cold local beer, live music from noon onward, and the smell of smoke in the air – this is what August in the South Sound is all about.
- Come on Friday night. The weekend kicks off with the BBQ Kickoff Banquet on Friday evening, featuring Texas-style brisket and pulled pork from J&C BBQ & Catering, live music, and cold drinks. Advance tickets are $40 and strongly encouraged.
Make It More Than a Festival Visit
The DuPont BBQ Cookoff is already a standout Pacific Northwest tradition. Layer in a trail walk to the Sound, a stop at the historical museum, playground time at one of several parks, and a meal at a neighborhood pub or restaurant, and you’ve built a full day that showcases the best of this quiet, history-rich community next to Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Come for the championship barbecue and live music – stay to discover the trails, parks, and welcoming local spots that make DuPont worth exploring.
