The draw of barbecue and bluegrass was too much for Hurricane Joaquin. Even the inclement weather couldn’t keep tens of thousands of people from heading to downtown Raleigh for the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Wide Open Bluegrass Festival on October 2nd and 3rd.
For the second year in a row, the NC Barbecue Experience joined the music and festivities, providing attendees with North Carolina’s favorite food. This year, the weather moved the party inside the Raleigh Convention Center.
On Friday night, Matthew Register of Southern Smoke BBQ in Garland kicked off the NC Barbecue Experience, dishing up his wood-smoked barbecue, baked beans, barbecue potatoes, and slaw to more than 600 hungry bluegrass fans.
Matthew was back on Saturday, showing off his skills in the ABC11 WTVD Pop Up Studio. He let viewers in on the secrets behind his pulled pork, ribs, and sweet potato and pork belly hash. Those on hand to witness the demonstration got the distinct honor of sampling his delicacies.
Later that day, Linwood Parker of White Swan BBQ set up shop for the second night of the NC Barbecue Experience. On the menu was traditional Eastern North Carolina barbecue, coleslaw, baked beans, collards, hush puppies, and banana pudding.
Luckily, the weather didn’t dampen spirits or appetites, and the NC Barbecue Experience was a success!
The countdown is on to next year’s Wide Open Bluegrass Festival. Mark your calendars for September 27 – October 1.
