Written by Southwest Florida Family Staff and originally published on Southwest Florida Family
One of Collier County’s longest-running Thanksgiving traditions is returning for its 69th year. The Farm-City BBQ will bring together farmers, business leaders, elected officials, families, and neighbors on Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at the Collier County Fairgrounds.
Held during National Farm-City Week, the annual event celebrates the connection between Collier County’s agricultural community and the businesses, organizations, and residents who help the region thrive.
What began nearly seven decades ago as an act of generosity between local farmers and Naples business leaders has grown into one of the county’s signature pre-Thanksgiving gatherings. Thousands attend each year to reconnect with friends and colleagues, enjoy a locally sourced meal, and help support youth leadership programs throughout Collier County.
“The Farm City BBQ honors the important role agriculture has played in shaping Collier County while celebrating the partnerships that continue to strengthen our community today,” said Michael Wynn, board chair of the Farm-City BBQ.
Guests can expect a steak lunch with fresh vegetables grown in Immokalee, live music by the Back Country Boys Band, and plenty of cowboy hats. Volunteer business leaders trade the boardroom for the barbecue grill, while elected officials serve guests as celebrity servers.
This year’s event is co-chaired by Russell Budd, founding partner of PBS Contractors, and Gloria Padilla, community relations manager for RCMA. Paul Hiltz, president and CEO of NCH, will serve as honorary chair.
Supporting Collier County Youth
The Farm-City BBQ is more than a community gathering. Proceeds help support programs that develop and encourage the next generation of Collier County leaders.
2026 beneficiaries include:
- Collier County 4-H
- Collier County Junior Deputies
- Farm City BBQ of Collier County
- Key Clubs of Collier County
- Youth Leadership Collier
Youth from the beneficiary organizations will volunteer during the event and help with fundraising activities.
Guests also will have opportunities to purchase the popular Farm-City BBQ carving knife and bags of fresh vegetables donated by Lipman Family Farms, as well as enter a raffle to win a Big Green Egg grill donated by Sunshine Ace Hardware.
Over its history, the Farm-City BBQ has raised more than $730,000 for local youth development programs.
Farm-City BBQ Tickets
Tickets are now on sale. A steak lunch ticket is $30, while a steak lunch and drinks package is $40.
Ticket prices will increase Oct. 15 and again Nov. 11, so guests can save by purchasing early.
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at FarmCityBBQ.com.
A Collier County Tradition Nearly Seven Decades Strong
The Farm-City BBQ traces its roots to a difficult harvest season 69 years ago, when Naples business leaders stepped in to help local farming families. The following year, farmers returned the favor by hosting a community barbecue.
That exchange of generosity grew into a tradition celebrating the relationship between Collier County’s agricultural and business communities.
Today, the event continues to bring the community together around good food, volunteerism, and gratitude while raising money for programs that help prepare local young people to become future leaders.
69th Annual Farm-City BBQ
When: Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2026, at 11:30 a.m.
Where: Collier County Fairgrounds
Tickets: $30 for steak lunch; $40 for steak lunch and drinks package. Prices increase Oct. 15 and Nov. 11.
Information and tickets: FarmCityBBQ.com
