Raleigh to host Tar Heel Barbecue Classic
Tar Heel Barbecue Classic will celebrate world’s best ‘cue

North Carolina barbecue is the best in the world, but its two distinct styles – Eastern and Western – have made for a house divided. Until now.

The N.C. Barbecue Society and the Downtown Raleigh Alliance recently announced plans for the first Tar Heel Barbecue Classic, which will take place Oct. 6 and 7 on Fayetteville Street in Raleigh. Featuring music and activities, the festival will bring together premier barbecue cookers from across the state and attract barbecue lovers from all corners.

“We’re now united in ‘cue,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “The Tar Heel Barbecue Classic puts our state’s best cookers in one place for the whole world to marvel at and enjoy.”

Organizers expect tens of thousands of people to attend the event, which will stretch from the Capitol down Fayetteville Street. “For years and years to come, the Classic will bring natives and visitors downtown to dance, see the sights and, yes, pig out,” said Mayor Charles Meeker.

R.C. Hunt, president of the N.C. Pork Council, said he would like to see the event rival other barbecue competitions, such as those in Memphis, Tenn., and Kansas City, Mo.

Revelers will also get a chance to know barbecue better. The Classic will offer lessons in how to prepare and appreciate ‘cue.

“North Carolina truly is ‘the Cradle of ‘Cue,’ and as such it’s only right that we bring together our best cookers to share their craft,” said Jim Early, founder of the barbecue society and author of “The Best Tar Heel Barbecue: Manteo to Murphy.” “There are plenty of barbecue festivals, but there will be only one Tar Heel Classic.”