Friday - May 1, 2026

BBQ Fest on the Neuse open to the public from 5pm-10pm

4:45PM
- SHUTTLES BEGIN TRANSPORTING FROM HISTORIC GRAINGER STADIUM (400 E Grainger Ave, Kinston, NC 28501) TO FESTIVAL

5:00pm - 10:00pm
- Vendors Open (150+)
- So Fun Amusements – Carnival – Pearson Park
- Cruise In for Vehicles 2000 and older
- Kid’s Fest – Flimsy’s Fun Zone – Kinston-Lenoir County Parks & Recreation
- Wine, Beer, & Spirits Garden
Duplin Winery, Country Squire, Mother Earth Brewing, Social House Vodka, Coco Bongo, Hinnant Vineyards, Cape Fear Distillery
- Domestic Beers for sale under the chop tent

5:30pm
- Opening Ceremony G.I. Joe’s/SALUTE (Herritage Street Stage)

6:00pm
- Welcome & Announcement of Cook Teams & Sponsors
- Carolina Cruisers Cruise In – Year 2001 and Older
-Chain Reaction BMX Stunt Show - at The Flue

7:00pm
- Country Recording Artist – JAY TYNDALL– Herritage St. Stage

8:30pm
- Nashville Recording Artists – DYLAN SCHNEIDER – Herritage St. Stage
10:00PM
Festival Closes

10:30pm
- SHUTTLE SERVICE RUNS UNTIL 10:30PM FROM BBQ FEST TO GRAINGER STADIUM (400 E Grainger Ave, Kinston, NC 28501)