Barbecue lovers, backyard grill masters, and families searching for the perfect summer outing are invited to the 7th Annual Magic City Grill Fest on Saturday, July 11, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in downtown Colon, Michigan — the celebrated “Magic Capital of the World.”
This year’s festival comes with an even bigger thrill: the qualified winner of the Beef Slider (Burger) category will earn a coveted Golden Ticket invitation to compete in the burger category at the 2026 World Food Championships in Indianapolis, Indiana, October 15–18, 2026.
Presented by the Colon American Legion, the Magic City Grill Fest has grown into one of southwest Michigan’s premier outdoor culinary events, bringing together talented grilling teams, incredible food, friendly competition, and hometown spirit. More than a festival, it’s a celebration of community that helps support local veterans and community initiatives.
Throughout the day, grilling teams will battle in three mouthwatering rounds featuring pork ribs, chicken wings, and beef sliders. A panel of judges will award prizes and bragging rights in each category, while attendees can sample the action and cast their votes for the fan-favorite Taster’s Choice Award.
A standout moment in this year’s competition is the Beef Slider Round, where the qualified winning team will receive an official Golden Ticket to the prestigious World Food Championships, held at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center in Indianapolis this October. That opportunity positions the Magic City Grill Fest as a launchpad to one of the nation’s most respected food competitions.
“The opportunity to send one of our competitors to the World Food Championships adds another level of excitement and prestige to the event,” said Festival Chair George Collins. “We’re proud that the Magic City Grill Fest can give talented backyard and professional grillers a chance to compete on the national stage.”
“The Magic City Grill Fest is more than just a barbecue competition,” Collins added. “It’s a chance to bring people together, celebrate great food, support a meaningful cause, and showcase everything that makes Colon and our community special.”
In addition to unlimited tasting opportunities, the festival will feature:
• Competitive barbecue and grilling teams from across the region
• The popular Taster’s Choice Award, voted on by attendees
• A Cornhole Tournament open to participants and spectators
• Raffles, prizes, and family-friendly entertainment
• A post-event celebration at the Colon American Legion, open to everyone
Whether a serious barbecue enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable summer day with family and friends, the Magic City Grill Fest promises a full slate of food, fun, and fellowship.
Event Details
What: 7th Annual Magic City Grill Fest
When: Saturday, July 11, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Where: 123 E. State Street, Colon, Michigan
Admission: Taster’s Tickets are available for $20. Team registration is also open for competitors.
For complete event information, team registration, taster tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and the full schedule, visit www.magiccitygrillfest.com? or follow Magic City Grill Fest on Facebook for updates, announcements, and behind-the-scenes previews.
This year’s festival comes with an even bigger thrill: the qualified winner of the Beef Slider (Burger) category will earn a coveted Golden Ticket invitation to compete in the burger category at the 2026 World Food Championships in Indianapolis, Indiana, October 15–18, 2026.
Presented by the Colon American Legion, the Magic City Grill Fest has grown into one of southwest Michigan’s premier outdoor culinary events, bringing together talented grilling teams, incredible food, friendly competition, and hometown spirit. More than a festival, it’s a celebration of community that helps support local veterans and community initiatives.
Throughout the day, grilling teams will battle in three mouthwatering rounds featuring pork ribs, chicken wings, and beef sliders. A panel of judges will award prizes and bragging rights in each category, while attendees can sample the action and cast their votes for the fan-favorite Taster’s Choice Award.
A standout moment in this year’s competition is the Beef Slider Round, where the qualified winning team will receive an official Golden Ticket to the prestigious World Food Championships, held at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center in Indianapolis this October. That opportunity positions the Magic City Grill Fest as a launchpad to one of the nation’s most respected food competitions.
“The opportunity to send one of our competitors to the World Food Championships adds another level of excitement and prestige to the event,” said Festival Chair George Collins. “We’re proud that the Magic City Grill Fest can give talented backyard and professional grillers a chance to compete on the national stage.”
“The Magic City Grill Fest is more than just a barbecue competition,” Collins added. “It’s a chance to bring people together, celebrate great food, support a meaningful cause, and showcase everything that makes Colon and our community special.”
In addition to unlimited tasting opportunities, the festival will feature:
• Competitive barbecue and grilling teams from across the region
• The popular Taster’s Choice Award, voted on by attendees
• A Cornhole Tournament open to participants and spectators
• Raffles, prizes, and family-friendly entertainment
• A post-event celebration at the Colon American Legion, open to everyone
Whether a serious barbecue enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable summer day with family and friends, the Magic City Grill Fest promises a full slate of food, fun, and fellowship.
Event Details
When: Saturday, July 11, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Where: 123 E. State Street, Colon, Michigan
Admission: Taster’s Tickets are available for $20. Team registration is also open for competitors.
For complete event information, team registration, taster tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and the full schedule, visit www.magiccitygrillfest.com? or follow Magic City Grill Fest on Facebook for updates, announcements, and behind-the-scenes previews.
