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SCICON BBQ
Date: Sunday, April 19, 2026
Time: 11:00AM - 4:00PM

Staff will be on hand to lead wildflower walks and nature hikes.  There will be a wildflower display showing over 100 species of wildflowers.  The SCICON museum of natural history, the planetarium, and the observatory will be open all day.  There will be wildlife shows in the SCICON Raptor Center.   There will be special children's activities such as building bird nesting boxes & face painting.  Deep-pit BBQ lunches will be available for purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before you head our way, take a quick peek at the Common Questions below! We’ve rounded up the details to help you know what to expect, where to go, and how to make the most of the SCICON BBQ. A quick read now means more time enjoying good food, great company, and a little mountain magic when you get here!

1. What is the SCICON Barbecue and Wildflower Festival?
The SCICON Barbecue and Wildflower Festival is a FREE annual community event that began in 1963, celebrating outdoor education and the SCICON program. It continues a long-standing Gill Family tradition of hosting a ranch picnic during branding season.

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2. What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept CASH and CREDIT CARDS for meal tickets, souvenirs, Kona Ice, and Tom’s Coffee.

Soft drinks and A&W root beer floats are CASH ONLY.

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3. What is SCICON?
SCICON is an outdoor education program that began in 1958. Today, the campus spans over 1,000 acres, with an additional 600 acres at Circle J – Norris Ranch, and serves approximately 20,000 students each year.

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4. What time is the BBQ meal served?
Meals are served at John Muir Lodge between 11:00 AM and 3:30 PM.

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5. What is included in the BBQ meal?
Each meal includes:

  • Deep Pit BBQ Beef

  • Coleslaw

  • Chili Beans

  • Roll

  • BBQ Sauce

  • Butter

  • Apple

  • Two Cookies

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6. How much does the meal cost?

  • Adults: $20

  • Seniors (60+): $15

  • Kids (12 & under): $15

  • Military/Veterans: $15

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7. Where can I get drinks?

  • Free Culligan water is available on the Lodge deck.

  • Soft drinks are available for purchase behind the Lodge.

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8. Is there entertainment?
Yes! Performances are at 12:00 PM in the Lodge.

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9. Will there be souvenirs available?
Yes. Friends of SCICON will be selling T-shirts, tote bags, caps, and other souvenirs at a booth near the Lodge.

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10. Will there be a wildflower poster?
Yes! Each family will receive one commemorative wildflower poster. Artist Frances Pyles will be located on the back deck of the Lodge.

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11. Can I bring my pet?
No. Pets are not allowed on campus.

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12. Can we go in the creek or ponds?
No. Wading in creeks or ponds is not allowed in order to protect wildlife, especially salamanders.

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13. Can we pick wildflowers or handle wildlife?
No. Please do not pick wildflowers or handle salamanders.

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14. Are there safety reminders for visitors?
Yes.

  • Stay on trails to avoid rattlesnakes and ticks.

  • Stay with your children at all times.

  • Sky Trail is closed on BBQ Day.

  • SCICON is a tobacco-free campus (no smoking).

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15. Who do I contact if I need help or have an emergency?
Please go to the Information Booth, the Lodge, or contact the nearest SCICON staff member.

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16. Who makes the BBQ possible?
The event is supported by  school districts and community organizations, along with many volunteers and sponsors.

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17. Is there parking?

Yes, limited parking is available at SCICON in order to protect our wildlife and natural viewing areas. We encourage guests to carpool when possible so we can accommodate as many visitors as possible. Parking is free.

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