Tamassee DAR BBQ Cook-Off (SCBA)

Tamassee DAR School’s Charity BBQ Cook-Off is a family-friendly fundraiser that pairs great barbecue with a laid-back afternoon on the school’s historic campus.

Guests come for plates of barbecue and “all the trimmings,” then stick around for music, kids’ activities, and a community cruise-in style car gathering. Proceeds support Tamassee DAR School, a 501(c)(3) organization serving children and families through recovery- and education-focused programs.

On This Page

When and where it’s held

The cook-off is typically held on a Saturday, with public food service running late morning through early afternoon.

What to expect as an attendee

This event is designed to be easy for families and groups:

Barbecue plates sold to the public (with sides)
Live music as a backdrop for the afternoon
Family-friendly extras that often include inflatables or a bounce house, face painting, and a playground area
A car cruise-in component
Door prizes and other small on-site surprises
Kid-focused activities such as guided horseback rides are sometimes part of the day’s lineup

The barbecue and how it’s served

Barbecue sales to the general public typically begin at 11 a.m., and guests can plan to eat on-site and enjoy the campus atmosphere, or grab plates to go.

The cook-off and competition side

Alongside public tasting and plate sales, the event includes a judged cook-off component that draws competitive teams. In recent years it has been promoted as a South Carolina Barbeque Association (SCBA) event, with turn-ins and awards timed around the public portion of the day.

Why it matters

The cook-off supports Tamassee DAR School’s mission-driven work with children and families, with proceeds benefiting the organization’s programs.

Sponsorship and community support

Local businesses and community partners can support the event through sponsorships. Sponsorship information is handled through Tamassee DAR School’s development contacts.