Springfield's 'Grillin' with Local 12' Returns This Saturday!
Locales: New York, UNITED STATES

Springfield, OH - March 13th, 2026 - The scent of hickory smoke and the sounds of live music are set to fill Veterans Park this Saturday, March 14th, as Local 12 proudly presents the highly anticipated return of 'Grillin' with Local 12.' This isn't simply a barbecue competition; it's a vibrant celebration of Springfield's community spirit, a day designed to connect neighbors, support local talent, and bolster the city's beloved parks system.
For years, 'Grillin' with Local 12' has been a staple of the Springfield social calendar, a springtime kickoff to warmer weather and community engagement. After a brief hiatus, the event is back - bigger and better than ever - promising a full day of family-friendly fun and, of course, mouthwatering barbecue.
The Heart of the Event: The BBQ Cook-Off
The core of 'Grillin' with Local 12' remains the fiercely competitive yet good-natured BBQ cook-off. This year sees a record number of local teams vying for the prestigious title of 'Best BBQ' in Springfield. Each team will bring their unique rubs, sauces, and smoking techniques to the table, transforming raw cuts of meat into smoky, tender masterpieces. A panel of local culinary experts will meticulously judge each entry based on taste, texture, appearance, and overall appeal. Expect a diverse range of barbecue styles, from classic Kansas City ribs to Texas-style brisket and Carolina pulled pork. Attendees will be able to sample select offerings from the competing teams (available for purchase), allowing them to participate in the judging process with their own taste buds.
Beyond the Brisket: A Day of Entertainment
While barbecue takes center stage, 'Grillin' with Local 12' offers much more than just delicious food. Local 12 has curated a dynamic lineup of live musical performances, spanning a wide spectrum of genres. From foot-stomping country and soulful blues to energetic rock and roll, the music will keep the energy high throughout the day. The stage will feature both established local bands and up-and-coming artists, providing a platform to showcase Springfield's thriving music scene.
Families are well catered for with a dedicated 'Kids' Zone' brimming with activities. Children can enjoy face painting, carnival games, bounce houses, and other engaging entertainment, ensuring a fun-filled day for all ages. The Kids' Zone will be supervised by experienced volunteers, offering parents peace of mind while their children play.
Giving Back to the Community
This year's 'Grillin' with Local 12' holds particular significance as a fundraising event for the City of Springfield's Parks & Recreation Department. A percentage of the proceeds from food and beverage sales will be directly donated to support the maintenance, improvement, and expansion of Springfield's parks and recreational programs. This commitment underscores Local 12's dedication to giving back to the community and investing in the spaces that enhance the quality of life for all residents.
"We are thrilled to bring 'Grillin' with Local 12' back to Springfield," says Sarah Miller, Event Coordinator for Local 12. "This event is more than just a barbecue; it's about fostering a sense of community, celebrating local talent, and supporting the things that make Springfield special. We're excited to see everyone come together to enjoy a day of food, music, and fun."
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, March 14th, 2026
- Time: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Location: Veterans Park, Springfield, OH
- Admission: Free! (Food and drinks available for purchase)
Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to celebrate Springfield, support local businesses, and enjoy a day filled with delicious food and community spirit. For more information and updates, visit the Local 12 website: [ https://local12.com ]. And be sure to check out photos from previous events [ https://local12.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/grilling-image.jpg ] to get a taste of what's in store!
Read the Full Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati Article at:
[ https://local12.com/community/grillin-with-local-12 ]