The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Expo (HPBExpo25) is set to be the biggest event for BBQ, grilling, smoking, and outdoor cooking enthusiasts in 2025! From March 26 to 29, the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans will be the hotspot for the latest in barbecue innovation, outdoor kitchen advancements, and game-changing cooking technology. Whether you’re in the business of grilling, smoking, or pizza ovens, this is the must-attend event for retailers, manufacturers, distributors, and industry pros looking to stay ahead of the curve.
The Business of BBQ: Network, Innovate & Grow
With over 5,500 industry professionals, 300+ leading brands, and 1,300+ buyers, HPBExpo25 is the prime opportunity to connect, collaborate, and expand your BBQ business. Engage with industry leaders at events like the Retailer Roundtables, Affiliate Receptions, and the Ultimate Awards Show & Bayou Bash Industry Party. This event is all about fueling relationships and uncovering the next big trends in BBQ and outdoor cooking.
See the Latest in BBQ Innovation
HPBExpo25 is where groundbreaking barbecue and outdoor kitchen products make their debut. Attendees will experience:
- New Products Pavilion – Check out the latest smokers, grills, pizza ovens, fire pits, and accessories revolutionizing outdoor cooking.
- Outdoor Burn Area – Witness live-fire cooking demonstrations showcasing the best in charcoal, wood, pellet, and gas grilling.
- Expanded Indoor Burning Area – More live demos than ever, including cutting-edge natural gas BBQ technology and smart grilling innovations.
“One of the most exciting new elements this year is our expanded live burn demonstrations, both indoors and outdoors,” emphasizes Jill McClure, President & CEO of HPBA. “Thanks to HPBA’s revised policies, attendees will experience a larger selection of live-burning natural gas appliances on the show floor – TWICE the number of products than in our last show in Nashville.”
Elevate Your Expertise with HPBExpo25 Education
Sponsored by Copperfield Academy, the educational tracks at HPBExpo25 are packed with essential insights for BBQ business owners and professionals. Sessions cover:
- Sales & marketing strategies to grow your BBQ brand
- Industry regulations, safety, and tax incentives
- Innovations in outdoor kitchen and hearth design
- Manufacturer-led training sessions on the latest grilling tech
Attendees have 30+ Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to choose from and can gain certifications from the National Fireplace Institute (NFI) and Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA).
McClure highlights the significance of this year’s program, “Our educational program has grown significantly, offering over 30 expert-led sessions and dynamic workshops tailored to elevate your knowledge and skills. From tax credits and building codes to live BBQ demonstrations and customer service strategies, there’s information that you need for your business in 2025.”
Keynote Speakers & Industry Insights
This year’s theme, “Leading Through Times of Change,” brings powerhouse speakers from the BBQ and outdoor living industries. Expect motivational insights from top leaders, including Brian Smith, President of Hearth & Home Technologies, and Henry Hall, HPBA Chairman of the Board. These sessions will provide invaluable strategies to navigate the ever-evolving world of outdoor cooking and grilling.
Celebrate BBQ Excellence at the Ultimate Awards Show
The New Product Pavilion will highlight the year’s most innovative BBQ and outdoor cooking products, and attendees can vote for the Attendees’ Choice Awards via the HPBExpo25 Mobile App. Plus, industry pros will be honored in categories like:
- BBQ Retailer of the Year
- Trainer of the Year
- Excellence in Outdoor Cooking Innovation
- Affiliate of the Year
Following the awards, the Bayou Bash Industry Party will keep the energy high with live music, top-tier networking, and mouthwatering BBQ in true New Orleans style. McClure adds: “We promise to make it a fast-paced and fun evening with the Industry Party immediately following the awards.”
Why You Need to Be at HPBExpo25
- 87% of attendees come to discover new suppliers, ensuring your business stays stocked with the latest and greatest in BBQ tech.
- 74% of visitors attend to explore cutting-edge outdoor cooking trends.
- 90% of attendees come ready to finalize business deals, making this a can’t-miss event for industry pros.
- Live-action burn demos will be doubled compared to 2024, offering hands-on experiences with the hottest new grilling and smoking equipment.
Experience New Orleans: The Ultimate BBQ Destination
New Orleans is the perfect backdrop for HPBExpo25. After a day of discovering the latest BBQ innovations, indulge in the city’s legendary food scene, live jazz, and historic charm. Don’t miss the After Dark Networking Event at Sidecar Patio & Oyster Bar, an exclusive opportunity to connect with fellow outdoor cooking professionals.
Plan Your HPBExpo25 Experience
The official HPBExpo25 Mobile App is your key to navigating the expo, featuring schedules, exhibitor listings, floor plans, and more. Download it in mid-February to get the most out of your experience.
Secure Your Spot Now!
Registration and hotel accommodations are filling up fast. Book your housing through onPeak before the March 5, 2025 deadline to lock in the best rates.
Apply to Exhibit & Showcase Your BBQ Brand
HPBExpo25 is where key decision-makers in the BBQ and outdoor cooking industry come together. If you’re a manufacturer of grills, smokers, pizza ovens, outdoor kitchens, or BBQ accessories, this is your chance to connect with top buyers.
Sign Up for the Outdoor Burn Area
The Outdoor Burn Area has been redesigned to highlight propane, charcoal, pellet, and wood-burning products in an interactive environment. A new Education Classroom will ensure even more engagement with attendees eager to learn about your products.
McClure shares her excitement: “The return of our Outdoor Burn Area promises three full days of propane, charcoal, pellet, and woodburning showcases, along with a brand-new outdoor education classroom. These hands-on opportunities not only fuel curiosity but also help inform smarter buying decisions and selling techniques.”
Expanded Indoor Burn Area – More Live Demos Than Ever!
Thanks to revised indoor burn policies, exhibitors will showcase a broader range of live-burning BBQ products, giving attendees hands-on access to the latest in grilling and outdoor heating innovations.
Suitcasing & Outboarding Policy
HPBExpo requires sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees to adhere to our Suitcasing & Outboarding policy. This policy, strictly enforced, ensures exhibitors can showcase their products without unauthorized marketing disrupting official programming. Manufacturers and providers of business services for the industry are required to participate as exhibitors or sponsors to attend HPBExpo.
🔥 Don’t miss the hottest BBQ & outdoor cooking event of the year! 🔥Register Now at HPBExpo.com and be part of the future of BBQ and outdoor living.