Washington, DC — The Anacostia Business Improvement District (Anacostia BID), through its Art to Go-Go Arts & Culture District, in partnership with the 34th Annual Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle, is inviting artists from across Washington, DC to participate in a citywide design competition to create the official artwork for the 2026 Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle.

Local artists are encouraged to submit an original design that captures the spirit of community, unity, diversity, and celebration — themes that reflect both the culture of Washington, DC and the energy of one of the city’s most iconic festivals.

The winning design will be featured as the official artwork for the 2026 Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle, appearing on event posters, commemorative T-shirts, and promotional materials. The selected artist will receive a $1,000 cash prize along with significant exposure through the event’s extensive marketing campaign.

Each year, the Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle attracts tens of thousands of attendees and generates millions of media impressions across digital, social, broadcast, and traditional media. The winning artist’s work will be showcased across the event’s website, promotional materials, and merchandise distributed throughout the festival.

“This contest celebrates the incredible artistic talent in Washington, DC while giving one artist the opportunity to have their work seen by thousands of people during one of the city’s most beloved community events.”

Contest Details
Artists should submit an original design suitable for T-shirts and posters that represents the spirit of the Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle and the vibrant culture of Washington, DC.

Prize
• $1,000 cash award
• Artwork featured on official event T-shirts and posters
• Recognition on the Giant BBQ Battle website and promotional materials
• Exposure through the event’s extensive marketing campaign

Eligibility
Open to artists residing in Washington, DC

Submission
Designs should be submitted to: bit.ly/2026BBQBATTLE-ARTISTCALL
Submission Deadline: April 17, 2026

About the Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle
The Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle is one of Washington, DC’s premier food and music festivals, bringing together championship barbecue teams, live entertainment, community organizations, and thousands of visitors each year to celebrate food, culture, and community.

For more information about the contest or the event, visit https://bbqindc.com/.