North Charleston Prepares for the Exciting Holy Smokes BBQ Festival
In the heart of North Charleston, the much-anticipated Holy Smokes BBQ Festival is set to sizzle its way into the community on November 9. Taking place at the scenic Riverfront Park, this popular event promises to be a delightful day filled with mouthwatering barbecue, camaraderie, and a whole lot of community spirit.
A Culinary Charitable Celebration
Anthony DiBernardo, one of the founders of the festival, beams with pride when he talks about its impact over the past three years. Thanks to the generous attendees and participating chefs, the festival has successfully raised an impressive $300,000, which has been donated to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Charleston and Hogs for the Cause. These organizations support families with children undergoing treatment at the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital.
This year, just like in the past, every single cent from the event will be directed to these charitable causes. “It feels fantastic to know we’re not just filling stomachs but also giving back to families in need,” DiBernardo shares. He is also the owner of the popular barbecue joint, Swig & Swine, which adds a personal touch to this community-centered event.
The BBQ Dream Team
Holy Smokes was founded in 2021 when DiBernardo collaborated with renowned pitmaster Aaron Siegel from Home Team BBQ and a few culinary experts to create an unforgettable barbecue festival experience. They wanted to ensure that the festival was enjoyable not just for attendees but also for the chefs. By covering travel expenses and food costs, they provide a relaxed environment where the pitmasters can showcase their skills without the stress that often comes with such events.
Festival-goers can look forward to sampling dishes crafted by highly talented chefs from all over the country. Among the returning favorites are Leonard Botello IV of Truth BBQ, Evan LeRoy from LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue, and Billy Durney from Hometown Bar-B-Que. From the hustle and bustle of Houston, Patrick Feges and his wife Erin Smith, known for their creative barbecue sides, are excited for another year, sharing their unique takes on traditional barbecue flavors.
A Taste of Barbecue Diversity
This year’s festival menu promises to encompass a rich tapestry of flavors from various regions and cultures. The festival features four distinct culinary villages where chefs collaborate to create dishes that reflect their heritage. There’s an undeniable buzz centered around the Texas, Traditional, New School, and Coastal villages, each offering something special to tantalize the taste buds.
The evolution of barbecue in big Southern cities like Charleston is also shining through, as chefs mix traditional techniques with international influences. For example, King BBQ, recently highlighted as one of Bon Appétit’s “20 Best New Restaurants of 2024,” showcases a delightful fusion of Chinatown BBQ with Southern smoke. The co-owners, Shuai and Corrie Wang, plan to bring their signature smoked duck and cha shao ribs to the festival.
Mark Your Calendars!
The excitement surrounding the Holy Smokes BBQ Festival is palpable, and it’s no wonder why it’s become a treasured tradition in the Lowcountry. With more than a dozen talented South Carolina chefs set to participate this year, including James Beard Award nominee Robbie Robinson and local favorites, there’s something for everyone.
Tickets for this all-you-can-eat barbecue extravaganza are priced at $95 for general admission and $250 for VIP access. Given the incredible cause and the mouthwatering lineup, they’re expected to sell out fast! Be sure to grab your tickets early at holysmokeschs.com.
So, whether you’re a barbecue aficionado or just looking for an enjoyable day out with family and friends, the Holy Smokes BBQ Festival is the place to be this November. It’s not just an event but a celebration of community spirit, flavor, and giving back!
