Frequently Asked Questions

What is Elora’s Longest BBQ?

Elora’s Longest BBQ is one of Food Day Canada’s signature kickoff celebrations. Each summer, downtown Elora comes alive as chefs, farmers, producers, restaurants, musicians, volunteers and thousands of guests gather to celebrate Canadian food and community.

Food Day Canada is celebrated across the country. Elora’s Longest BBQ is one of the flagship events that helps launch the national celebration.

When is Elora’s Longest BBQ?

Elora’s Longest BBQ takes place on Tuesday, July 28, 2026.

Where is the event held?

The event takes place throughout downtown Elora, Ontario, centred around West Mill Street and the Jack R. MacDonald Bridge. The village becomes one large outdoor celebration with food, music and community gathering spaces.

Is admission free?

Yes. Admission to Elora’s Longest BBQ is free. Food and beverage tickets can be purchased to enjoy featured menus, drinks and tastings throughout the evening.

We recommend to purchase your food and beverage tickets in advance to skip the lines. Tickets are available in advance here. 

Where can I park?

We’ve made getting to Elora’s Longest BBQ easy. Enjoy free parking at The GrandWay in Elora, then hop aboard our free public shuttle for a convenient ride to and from the event. The Grandway is located at 7445 Wellington County Rd 21, Centre Wellington, ON N0B 1S0. Additional paid street parking is also available throughout Elora.

Is Elora’s Longest BBQ the same as Food Day Canada?

Food Day Canada is Canada’s national celebration of the people who grow, raise, harvest, cook, serve and share Canadian food. Every year, Canadians celebrate in their own communities from coast to coast, whether at home, in restaurants, at farmers’ markets or at community events. Elora’s Longest BBQ is one of Food Day Canada’s signature kickoff celebrations. Check our DINE Canadian page and map for many recommended locations worth celebrating.

Why is Elora’s Longest BBQ unique?

Elora’s Longest BBQ transforms an entire village into one shared community table.

Guests can meet chefs, farmers and food producers, discover Canadian ingredients, enjoy live entertainment and experience the warmth of gathering around food together. It celebrates not only what we eat, but the people and stories behind every meal.

Is the event family friendly?

Absolutely. Elora’s Longest BBQ is designed as a welcoming community celebration for all ages.

Families, friends, neighbours and visitors are encouraged to explore, eat, learn and celebrate together.

What kind of food will be available?

The event features Canadian-inspired dishes prepared by local and regional chefs, restaurants and food producers.

Menus showcase seasonal ingredients, local farms and the incredible diversity of Canadian cuisine.

Specific menus and dietary information are now available (subject to change.)

Will there be vegetarian, vegan or non-alcoholic options?

Yes. Participating chefs and beverage partners offer a variety of menu options, including vegetarian and non-alcoholic choices.

Please check our menus for more information.  

Who organizes Elora’s Longest BBQ?

Elora’s Longest BBQ is presented by Food Day Canada and Elora Mill with the support of community partners, sponsors, volunteers, chefs, restaurants, farmers, producers and local organizations.

Together, they create one of Canada’s signature celebrations of food and community.

How can I volunteer?

Volunteers play an important role in welcoming guests, assisting with way-finding, supporting food and beverage service, helping at community tables and creating a memorable visitor experience.

Volunteer opportunities for Elora are available here with Food Day Canada.

How can my restaurant, farm, business or organization participate?

Food Day Canada welcomes restaurants, farms, food producers, businesses, sponsors and community organizations to get involved.

Whether you’d like to participate, sponsor, volunteer or collaborate, we’d love to hear from you. Please send us an email or connect on our social media.

How is Elora’s Longest BBQ connected to Anita Stewart?

Food Day Canada was founded by Anita Stewart, one of Canada’s most influential food advocates. Elora is where she raised her family and founded this national movement.

Her vision was simple: celebrate Canadian food by celebrating the people behind it. Elora’s Longest BBQ proudly continues that legacy by bringing communities together around Canada’s table.

How many people attend Elora’s Longest BBQ?

More than 10,000 guests are expected to attend Elora’s Longest BBQ in 2026. The event brings together chefs, restaurants, farmers, producers, volunteers and visitors from across Ontario and beyond to celebrate Canadian food and community.

What is Food Day Canada?

Food Day Canada is Canada’s national celebration of the people who grow, raise, harvest, cook, serve and share Canadian food. Held annually when the harvest is in everywhere across Canada. The Food Day in Canada act declares  “the Saturday before the first Monday in August in each and every year“, and encourages everyone to shop, cook and dine Canadian while supporting local food, the people and the communities behind it.

Celebrate Food Day Canada everywhere!

Food Day Canada belongs to every Canadian. You can celebrate wherever you live by shopping local, cooking Canadian ingredients, dining at a local restaurant, visiting a farmers’ market, supporting local producers or gathering family and friends around the table.

No matter where you celebrate Canadian food, you’re part of Food Day Canada.