ROCKINGHAM — For nearly 20 years, one local church has combined grilling and singing for a a family friendly outdoor event.
First United Methodist Church is gearing up for its 19th annual Holy Smoke Barbecue and Music Festival from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.
School Board Chairman Wiley Mabe will once again be behind the grill, cooking up the barbecue that will be sold in sandwiches ($5) or plates ($8), which will be available on site or in the drive-thru pickup lane.
The “Music” portion of the event will feature artists performing a variety of Southern gospel, beach and soul songs.
Ronnie Moore kicks things off off at 11 a.m., followed by Jeanine Hanson at 11:30. At noon, Fayetteville-based Classic Soul will take the stage playing various beach music hits. Stan and Linda Jacobs will follow with a short set before Motown artists Jimmy and Darlene Harrington step behind the mics. The Unity Quartet gospel group will close out the event.
For the kids, there will be a playground, face painting and games.
Organizers say the show will go on rain or shine. In the case of rain, the music will be moved into the church’s fellowship hall.
A portion of the proceeds will go to Our Daily Bread and Place of Grace.