ICYMI: BBQ Fest is a go for downtown Kinston

After being canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a permit request was put before the city council on Tuesday for a scaled down event. With vaccination numbers rising, the question of whether or not the council would allow an event that has been known to draw thousands to operate downtown was placed in the agenda. 

Jan Parson, the executive director of Visit Kinston spoke before the city council and listed the COVID-19 precautions that will be in place for the BBQ Festival.

“In preparation for the festival the BBQ Fest committee has participated in the Count on Me NC program,” said Parson. “

Per their website, “Count On Me NC is a public health initiative that empowers visitors, guests and businesses to help keep everyone safe from COVID-19.” Parson also stated that social distancing will be utilized for vendors and cook teams and that hand sanitizers will be available. She went on to say masks will be encouraged.

“Since November 2020, the Visit Kinston staff has recruited more than 66 businesses in Lenoir County to become Count On Me NC certified,” said Parson. “BBQ Fest board members are Count On Me NC certified. Our event, cook-off, vendor, chop tent, and food quality directors are all Count On Me NC certified.”

Tables and chairs for attendees will not be offered.

“We will encourage them to bring a blanket or their own chairs so that they can find a distanced space to enjoy their BBQ lunch,” said Parson.

The council voted to approve the permit which will allow the BBQ Fest to happen in downtown Kinston. The festival is from May 7-8 and more details can be found at www.kinstonbbq.com.