November 11 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
A Culinary Convergence in the Lowcountry
In the heart of the Lowcountry, as autumn casts its golden light on North Charleston, the Holy Smokes BBQ Festival returns with a sizzle on November 11th. Riverfront Park will once again be the stage for this smoke-filled jubilee, where over 50 pitmasters and chefs from across the nation will unite to honor the rich tapestry of American barbecue.
Parker Milner of The Post and Courier paints a vivid scene of past festivals, where the air is thick with the aroma of smoked meats and the sound of crackling fires.
This year, the festival is set to surpass its previous iterations, presenting a veritable feast with an all-you-can-eat format across four distinct barbecue villages: Texas, Traditional, New School, and Coastal. Each village, a testament to the diverse culinary techniques that define American barbecue, invites guests to a journey through flavors and traditions.
More Than Just a Festival
The festival, now in its third year, is steeped in more than just culinary excellence; it is a celebration of community and charity. Aaron Siegel, chef and co-owner of Home Team BBQ, recalls the inspirational underpinnings of the festival, “It would feature good music and food, but the main mission would be to raise money for charity,” a testament to the event’s ethos (Milner).
As reported by Milner, Siegel’s vision was galvanized by his experience at Hogs for the Cause, a renowned barbecue competition and fundraiser that significantly benefits families dealing with pediatric brain cancer.
It is this spirit of giving that resonates through the Holy Smokes BBQ Festival, which in its short history has already donated over $200,000 to its beneficiaries, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Charleston and Hogs for the Cause.
Melodies and Meat: A Harmonious Blend
The upcoming festival not only promises an array of delectable barbecue but also an auditory feast with performances by Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country and Lilly Hiatt. The backdrop of the Cooper River sets a picturesque stage for the festival, further enriching the sensory experience.
Reflecting on the festival’s charitable impact, Anthony DiBernardo of Swig & Swine BBQ and a regular at the festival, shared, “I’ve always known that the gift of food could be used to help people,” showcasing the philanthropic heart that beats at the core of the barbecue community (Milner).
Festival Lineup
Access and Experience Packages
Tickets, ranging from $95 to $250, offer a variety of experiences from general admission to the all-inclusive VIP area, featuring additional exclusive food and drinks.
The pricing strategy ensures that the festival remains accessible while still upholding the quality and variety that have become its hallmarks.
In preparation for this grand event, Shuai Wang, who recently opened King BBQ with his wife Corrie, will host a special meal for the pitmasters and chefs. This pre-festival gathering is not only a testament to the camaraderie within the barbecue community but also highlights the festival’s engagement with local culinary talents.
Barbecue with a Purpose
Milner aptly describes the festival’s dual purpose: a gathering of like-minded individuals committed to preserving the craft of barbecue and a collective effort to give back to the community.
As the Holy Smokes BBQ Festival gears up for its third year, it stands as a beacon of the power of food to unite, delight, and contribute to the greater good.
