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Southeastern BBQ Showdown 2024

June 14-15, 2024 at Segra Park in Columbia, SC

Article by By: Kelly Hughes, Capital City/Lake Murray Country

Photography by Provided

Originally published in Lake Murray Lifestyle

Get ready to ignite your taste buds as Capital City/Lake Murray Country (CCLMC) rolls out the red carpet for the much-anticipated inaugural Southeastern BBQ Showdown, taking place on June 14-15, 2024, at Segra Park. This event will make history as the first food sport competition held in a sports stadium. And guess who's set to light up the stage? None other than the legendary Grammy® Award-winning Country Music band, Alabama!

For over fifty years, Alabama has been a driving force in the world of Country Music, revolutionizing the genre with their electrifying performances and innovative style. From introducing rock-style guitars, lights, and pyrotechnics to influencing a generation of artists spanning various genres, Alabama's impact is unparalleled.

“I look forward to singing 'Mountain Music,' 'Tennessee River,' 'Feels So Right' and so many more," says ALABAMA frontman Randy Owen. "It's just a matter of getting up on stage and enjoying it. We can't wait to see the fans who made it all possible."

But the Southeastern BBQ Showdown isn't just about the music; it's a celebration of all things BBQ! On June 14, the festivities kick off with “South Carolina Night”, featuring the South Carolina BBQ Association’s chicken wing competition, interactive exhibits, and live performances by the #1 Shag Band in the Southeast, Band of Oz. Then, on June 15, prepare for the “Ultimate Showdown” as 25 teams from across the competition BBQ world serve up delectable samples, while celebrity judges showcase their skills by sampling and critiquing the culinary creations.

Brad Shank, the Team President of the Columbia Fireflies, shares his excitement, saying, “Our team can't wait to welcome competitors and BBQ enthusiasts to Segra Park for the Southeastern BBQ Showdown. It’s going to be a sizzling event filled with fantastic food, great music, and the perfect kickoff to summer!”

So mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready for a weekend of culinary delights and toe-tapping tunes at the Southeastern BBQ Showdown. For more information, including details on BBQ teams, vendors, hotel reservations, tickets, and more, visit SoutheasternBBQShowdown.com. And be sure to follow the Showdown on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates. Plus, don't miss the Behind the Plate video podcast hosted by Emcee Mark Conway, premiering every Wednesday on YouTube, for an insider's look at all the excitement leading up to the big event!

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