October 18 – October 19
A Festival Steeped in Tradition
The quaint town of Jackson, known for its tight-knit community and rich traditions, is once again preparing to host its renowned Hook & Cook Festival.
As the aroma of barbecued meats wafts through the air and the sound of laughter fills the streets, it’s evident that this isn’t just any festival; it’s a testament to the town’s unity and the spirit of celebration.
A Look Back at Past Events
Drawing inspiration from past events, this year’s festival promises to be an even grander affair. In its eighth edition, the festival saw a footfall of 1,500 to 2,000 attendees, a number that has only grown over the years.
The 14th edition, despite challenges like waterlogged roads that led to the cancellation of the fishing tournament, still managed to draw between 1,000 to 3,000 attendees. Such resilience and dedication are what make the Hook & Cook Festival a standout event in Jackson’s calendar.
Two Days of Fun Activities
Set against the backdrop of the Jackson Pavilion on Main Street, the festival is a two-day extravaganza. While Friday evenings are reserved for arts, crafts, and food vendors, the highlight is undoubtedly the dessert competition, where participants vie for the coveted $100 first prize. And as the sun sets, live music takes center stage, ensuring that the night is filled with music, dance, and merriment.
Saturday is a day of diverse activities. From car and boat shows to antique displays, there’s something for everyone.
The Heart of the Festival: Barbecue and Fishing
The fishing tournament, a staple of the festival, sees enthusiastic participants launching their boats from the Jackson boat landing. With categories ranging from panfish and bass to striper/hybrid and catfish, the competition is fierce, culminating in a weigh-in at the Municipal Complex.
But what’s a Hook & Cook Festival without some mouth-watering barbecue?
The South Carolina BBQ Association sanctioned Cook-off is where the magic happens. With cash prizes up for grabs in categories like ribs and butt, the competition is intense. And for attendees, it’s a gastronomic delight, with barbecue dinners available for purchase.
Giving Back to the Community
The festival also gives back to the community. Past editions have seen donations to institutions like Redcliffe Elementary, the culinary department at Silver Bluff, and the NJROTC, to name a few.
As the festival draws to a close, one can’t help but marvel at the sense of community it fosters. As Phyllis Boyd aptly puts it, “It’s amazing how the small community has grown from this. We have people from all over here, and it’s just turned into something that people really enjoy; it’s a unified event.”
So, if you’re looking for a weekend of fun, food, and festivities, the Jackson Hook & Cook Festival is the place to be. It’s not just an event; it’s an experience, a celebration of community and tradition. And as the sun sets on Jackson, the memories of the festival linger, a reminder of the town’s indomitable spirit and the promise of many more celebrations to come.