Kennesaw Parks & Recreation announced the lineup for the much-anticipated annual culinary showdown and concert session, the Pigs & Peaches BBQ Festival. Laying down the southern charm thick, this festival doesn't just attract the locals; an anticipated 65,000 attendees are expected to swarm the grounds this year. Kicking off the festivities, the Luzianne® Tea Main Stage will be graced by none other than Channing Wilson on Saturday, August 17, 2024, and Boy Named Banjo, who will strum into town on Friday, August 16, 2024.
Living each day like it's a country song, Channing Wilson has been known for penning tunes for country royalty like Luke Combs. According to the festival's announcement, Wilson's approach to songwriting involves an "immense depth of empathy, curiosity, and devotion to inspiration." With a recent album produced by Dave Cobb, the man's got the chops to lead a crowd through a timeless journey of heartache and melody.
On the flip side, Boy Named Banjo is an act that's been stirring the Nashville pot with their own brand of cross-genre pickings. These boys have been cranking out tunes that trace back to their Americana and bluegrass roots, earning them spots at iconic venues like the Ryman and the Grand Ole Opry. It seems they're bringing that same fire to Kennesaw, along with their promise of new music that pays homage to where they started.
Adding to the festival's allure, a platter of new experiences is brought by Victory Brewing Company. For those looking to swap sweet tea for a stiffer drink, Victory offers the Monkey’s Neon Jungle, complete with beer flights, monkey slushies, and the mechanically whimsical giant banana ride—hop on for a chance at free beer for a year, they say. As part of the partnership, Victory's crafty concoctions will be on hand to quench the thirst of festival-goers, including their bold-flavored heavyweights Golden Monkey and Sour Monkey.
Of course, the jewel in the crown of Pigs & Peaches is the Kansas City Barbeque Society-sanctioned competition. This smoky meat isn't just another BBQ battle; it's an official Georgia BBQ Championship event. With over $16,000 in prize money on the line and categories ranging from Backyard BBQ to the Peach Dessert contest, there's no shortage of opportunities for both pitmasters and novices to shine. For the complete lowdown on the saucy specifics or to join the fun, visit the festival's website or contact the folks at the Parks & Rec office.
