
For the friend who lives for the backyard grill, there's no shortage of ideas. Indulge him in gadgets that do the grunt work, like this
electric vacuum marinator, or give him the chance to sample new flavors with
applewood planks and
citrus rosemary skewers. He can finish his signature dish with a
monogrammed flourish.

Tonight I'm forgoing my usual
soups, stews, and chowders for a relaxed Southern favorite:
barbecue. This morning I'll literally be dropping my pork into the
slow cooker, pouring in a few basic ingredients, and in six hours, the sweet aroma of North Carolina-style pulled pork will be wafting out of my kitchen. The fall-apart tender finished product, with its intensely tangy sauce, will no doubt become a family favorite.

This week's events have left me curious: Exactly what activities does one partake in at a
Pig Stein? Or a
Yambilee? If you have attended these in the past, I'd love to know.

It's the middle of Fall, and the festivities are bigger than ever. From
Spencer, WV, to
San Francisco, there's something for everyone, whether you've got a
craving for candy or a
hankering for ham. Know of something we've left out?

Across the country this month
Oktoberfest celebrations are in full force. There's something for you, whether you want to savor the last of the Summer with a
seafood festival or switch your mindset to Fall by enjoying one of the many
harvest celebrations. Have a tip for another event?