With just hours remaining until BBQ Fest on the Neuse lights up downtown Kinston, festival leaders and local law enforcement are encouraging attendees to review a few important safety reminders ahead of the May 2–3 event.
“This is our biggest event of the year, and we want it to be safe and enjoyable for everyone,” said Waylon Adams, chair of the BBQ Fest on the Neuse. “Preparations are in full swing. If folks have questions, everything they need to know is already listed on our website under the FAQ section.”
The two-day celebration — anchored by the World’s Largest Whole Hog Cook-off — will also feature more than 150 vendors, live music including Nashville recording artists Runaway June, carnival rides, a kids zone, dance showcases, and even a Guinness World Record attempt.
“There is no place else in the world that should own a BBQ record, a BBQ world record, outside the state of North Carolina,” said Roy Lee Lindsey, Chief Executive Officer at North Carolina Pork Council. “We need you to help us do that.”
Before the fun begins, Captain Willis of the Kinston Police Department says attendees should keep a few guidelines in mind to ensure a safe and smooth experience.
“One of the top questions we get is about golf carts and ATVs,” Willis said. “The answer is no. There’s going to be a lot of people on foot, and we want to make sure we keep the area safe.”
Other important rules include:
No pets allowed, except for service animals.
No outside alcohol is permitted. Instead, guests are encouraged to “support your local breweries,” Willis noted.
Roads downtown will close at 4 a.m. on Friday, May 2, to begin setting up the festival footprint.
The event kicks off unofficially Thursday evening with a carnival at Pearson Park starting at 5 p.m., followed by full festival programming Friday from 5–10 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m.–7 p.m. BBQ sandwiches will be available Saturday starting at 11 a.m. until sold out.
“This is a rain or shine event,” Willis added. “So come prepared, and come ready to have a great time.”
For festival maps, shuttle schedules, and more, visit www.kinstonbbq.com.
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Email her at kristy@neusenews.com
Word nerd with an unhealthy obsession with politics who happens to be a paranormal fiction author.
Email her at kristy@neusenews.com
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