“The Story of BBQ in N.C.” exhibit open at Roanoke Island Festival Park – OBX Today

A child sits eating barbecue, September 1944. [State Archives of NC]

The traveling exhibit “The Story of BBQ in N.C.” is now open at Roanoke Island Festival Park. This free exhibit is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through June 18 in the Ticket Sales Gallery.

“The Story of BBQ in N.C.” explores the emergence of hog cultivation and food made from them as a centerpiece of many gatherings. The exhibit also explores the East vs West debate about sauces and condiments, even as it seeks to explain that the eastern vinegar base and the western tomato ketchup enhanced versions really aren’t that different.  

Accompanying educational materials include STEM-based activities, a “Healthy Helpings” board game and a play kitchen for the youngest visitors to explore healthy eating options.

This traveling exhibit is on loan from the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and was created with financial support from the N.C. Pork Council.