The village set up on the Marine esplanade has been bustling since yesterday morning. It is animated by around forty exhibitors, mostly from Var. “There are about ten food stands and food trucks, some of which offer grilled meats on the plancha or over the fire. But it’s not just about grilling, BBQ here refers to festive dining,” explains Régis Taddé, from the GDM association, the event organizer.
Fabricio Delgaudio, a caterer from Hyères, offers grilled beef and poultry, as well as burgers, all cooked on site. “We have planned for 500 portions per day,” he explains, “and we are delighted to be here: everything is well organized and the site is welcoming, facing the sea and the boats, with the mountains in the background.” Just a few steps away, the Racletterie de Toulon also attracts crowds with its burgers and melted cheese sandwiches. “With our cheese cooking device, we can provide high-speed service,” assures Aurélien.
Among the many diners, we meet the locals César and Léa from La Seyne, who came with their two children: “We’re having lunch here. We chose raclette, a classic, and it’s very good! This festival is very nice, full of diversity, unlike what we see elsewhere. The children are also enjoying themselves.” The same positive tone for Nicolas, Sylvia, and Isabelle, who came from Toulon: “It is well arranged, there is something for everyone, in a nice friendly atmosphere. It’s very pleasant, especially under the sun. We are going to stay for two or three hours, to go around.”
Indeed, there is a lot to see. Starting with the vintage shopping area (vintage clothes, decorations, etc.).
One can also admire the talent of the petanque players who compete on large courts marked on the site. “180 teams have already signed up for the three days,” details Alexandre Beauchant, president of the Mar Vivo petanque association. “We organize two tournaments each day (at 9 am and 3 pm) and a precision shooting contest at 4 pm. It is possible to register until 9:45 am for the day’s tournaments.”
Children are not forgotten: inflatable castles and trampolines are set up on the site. Finally, motorcycle fans are in for a treat: trike and spyder baptisms (three-wheel motorcycles) are offered by the charitable association Trikes & Co, while a show is provided around 2 pm and 4 pm by Chris Bruand, a trial champion. Note that the festival will be open at night this Sunday, with concerts scheduled until 11 pm.
BBQ Fest on the Marine esplanade, Sunday from 10 am to 11 pm and Monday from 10 am to 6 pm. Entry fee is 3 euros.
