Posted in North Dakota June 14, 2018 by

The Ultimate Turkey BBQ Is Happening In This North Dakota Small Town And You’ll Want To Go

In a little town in North Dakota with a population just over 200 residents, the ultimate turkey BBQ attracts nearly 10 times that number every year. This summer festival is pretty much legendary here in the Peace Garden State, and it’s happening this weekend on June 15-17, 2018. You definitely don’t want to miss this if you love food, family, and fun!

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Aneta, North Dakota is a small town in Nelson County that is well known for one specific thing: turkey.
Andrew Filer/Flickr
Every year for over five decades, the Aneta Turkey BBQ and Summer Festival has been held in the city park. Over 300 turkeys will be cooking over the coals this year on June 16.
Aneta Turkey BBQ & Summer Festival/Facebook
Even though Aneta's population is just 222, more than 2,000 people came to experience the delicious turkey BBQ last year. Back when it started, they only had one line to serve up the yummy meal; now they've upped it to six!
Aneta Turkey BBQ & Summer Festival/Facebook
Turkey isn't the only thing happening at this festival. There are multiple days full of stuff to enjoy. On Friday you can taste test rhubarb recipes at the Aneta Orchard and enjoy entertainment and karaoke at the local bar.
Aneta Turkey BBQ & Summer Festival/Facebook
Throughout Saturday you can enjoy a pancake breakfast, browse through vendor and craft stalls, watch an old tractor pull, and see a parade.
Aneta Turkey BBQ & Summer Festival/Facebook
On Saturday there are also fun kid games and inflatables for the young ones to enjoy.
Aneta Turkey BBQ & Summer Festival/Facebook
And finally, starting at 4:30 PM on Saturday, the turkeys will be served - and they're absolutely delicious. Plus, live music will be happening while you eat and there's a street dance afterwards.
Aneta Turkey BBQ & Summer Festival/Facebook

The Aneta Turkey BBQ and Summer Festival will be mostly taking place in the Aneta City Park throughout June 15-17, 2018. For more information about the festival, a full schedule of events, and more, click here.

If you just can’t wait to get some tasty BBQ in North Dakota and need some right now, here are great BBQ restaurant options that’ll satisfy your tastebuds.