Savory Barbecue and Blues Fill the Air at Uptown Greenwood’s S.C. Festival of Discovery

Savory Barbecue and Blues Fill the Air at Uptown Greenwood’s S.C. Festival of Discovery

In the heart of South Carolina, Uptown Greenwood was buzzing with the S.C. Festival of Discovery on Friday, July 12, 2024. Under the clear to partly cloudy skies and light winds, the festival got off to a smoky start as 89 barbecue cook teams manned their grills, gearing up for the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) contest.

A Feast of Flavors

From midday, the cooks were meticulously smoking their meats, generously applying a variety of rubs and sauces. The tantalizing aroma of ribs, pulled pork, chicken, brisket, and diverse sides drew in a steady stream of hungry festival-goers. Many of the barbecue cook teams proudly showcased their trophies and awards from previous barbecue contests, a testament to their dedication and skill.

The local vendors weren’t far behind as they, too, set up shop throughout Uptown. The wide variety of food options, provided by vendors like Smell My Smoke BBQ & Catering, saw trays of mouth-watering barbecue flying off the counters.

Blues and Fun for All

Adding to the vibrant atmosphere was the Blues Cruise, a musical fiesta featuring dozens of world-class blues musicians. The sounds of soulful melodies hailing from the main stage near the Uptown fountain perfectly complemented the culinary spectacle.

Amidst all the excitement, families with young ones found a welcome escape from the summer heat at the Uptown Market. The Kids Zone, though not available until later in the evening, came equipped with a running splash pad, offering a fun respite while the adults indulged in the barbecue extravaganza.

Kids ‘Que Contest

Much like their adult counterparts, young chefs also had a chance to showcase their culinary expertise. The Kids ‘Que contest, a mini version of the main event, was every bit as intense and engaging.

What’s Next at the Festival?

The festivities in Uptown Greenwood are far from over. Visitors can look forward to the People’s Choice competition on Saturday, where they get to cast their votes on who triumphs in the barbecue battle. Nearly 20 blues acts will continue to perform throughout Uptown, ensuring attendees are swept away by the enchanting melodies.

To stay abreast of festival updates or to find out more about the Blues Cruise acts, interested readers can visit the official festival site. The S.C. Festival of Discovery will surely prove to be an unforgettable event for all, offering finger-licking good barbecue and world-class blues music under the glorious South Carolina sky.