Excitement Grows in Mauldin as SOOIE. BBQ Cook-Off Approaches
As summer begins to fade away, the city of Mauldin is gearing up for one of the most anticipated events of the year: the 14th annual SOOIE. BBQ Cook-Off! This lively festival, presented by South Carolina Federal Credit Union, will take place on September 13 and 14 at the outdoor amphitheater located at 101 E. Butler Road. Festivities are set to kick off with more than 25 cookers, mouth-watering food, lively music, and a cornucopia of family-friendly activities.
A Celebration of Community and Barbecue
Mayor Terry Merritt expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “SOOIE. is a wonderful celebration of South Carolina barbecue and community. This festival is a great way to spend a weekend as summer winds down.” With so much happening, it’s hard to resist marking your calendar for this weekend full of fun!
A Fun-Filled Friday Night
The festival kicks off on Friday evening with the exciting Anything Butt competition, where you can sample a variety of culinary delights that aren’t traditional barbecue. Expect to see sliders, grilled chicken, grilled vegetables, and even smoked cobbler on the menu! The evening will feature a performance from Away Team at 6 p.m., followed by stunning fireworks, sponsored by United Community Bank, lighting up the sky at 8:45 p.m..
The Main Event on Saturday
Saturday promises to be the big day! The centerpiece is the barbecue cook-off, where a panel of certified barbecue tasters from the South Carolina Barbecue Association will judge. Best of all, attendees will have the chance to sample pulled pork from the cookers and vote for the coveted People’s Choice Award. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., enjoy live music by Angela Easterling & The Beguilers. There will also be food and beverage vendors along with Growler Haus serving up delightful drinks.
Activities for All Ages
For those bringing their furry friends, the Bark-B-Q Zone welcomes leashed dogs. Families with kids can look forward to the Kids Zone, which features face painting and a LEGO station—fun for everyone!
“We think everyone will love hanging out in our backyard oasis while sampling delicious food from amazing barbecue masters. The fireworks on Friday night will add extra sizzle,” said Christine Faust, Cultural Center Manager.
Admission and More
Good news: admission, parking, live music, and the Kids Zone are all free! Guests will only need to pay for food and drink. So, grab your lawn chairs or blankets; just be sure to leave outside food and beverages at home. The event will go on rain or shine, and any severe weather announcements can be found on the Cultural Center’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
More Local Happenings
Mark your calendars! In addition to the SOOIE. BBQ Cook-Off, don’t forget about the exciting Hope Invitational Golf Tournament on September 23—a great opportunity to support individuals with autism. Also, the local Fountain Foods Market in Downtown Fountain Inn is here for your culinary needs, offering everything from locally sourced meals to scratch-made dishes.
With so many heartwarming activities and initiatives happening in Mauldin and beyond, it’s a fantastic time to get involved and enjoy the spirit of the community. So gather your friends and family and head to the SOOIE. BBQ Cook-Off for a weekend to remember!
