Texas Monthly’s epic festival of smoked meat will look a lot different this year, but we actually think it sounds pretty cool. Instead of packing in the crowds at the Long Center this year, the magazine is going to deliver the experience straight to you. Tickets for the big event are on sale now.

Participants will order an at home box full of sauces, rubs, professional tools, discounts on delivery from barbecue joints, and different ways to win prizes. There are three “experience levels” so you can choose your own adventure on this one.

The thing we like best about this pandemic pivot is the way they are drumming up support for the state’s greatest pitmasters, who have obviously been hit hard by recent events. TM BBQ Week, which runs October 24-31 will showcase special menu items from more than 50 top spots around the state that you can eat dine-in style or have delivered to your door.

When: October 24-November 1

Cost: $0–$109

Photo by Caio from Pexels.

In her previous life, Kristy was an uninspired realtor who was feeling a little bit bored with her day to day. So on January 1, 2010, she made a New Year’s resolution to write about one thing to do each day in her beloved city of Austin, Texas. And thus, 365 Things Austin was born.