24th Annual Squealin’ on the Square Festival Set to Delight in Downtown Laurens

Downtown Laurens is gearing up for the highly anticipated 24th Annual Squealin’ on the Square, taking place on Friday and Saturday, October 4th and 5th. This popular festival promises a weekend filled with mouth-watering barbecue, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities, drawing crowds from near and far.

This year, the festival will feature seven local barbecue vendors alongside national caliber competitors, elevating the culinary experience for attendees. On Saturday, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, visitors can participate in the People’s Choice voting, where a $10 ballot allows each judge to sample a 2 oz. taste from each barbecue vendor. The winners of the People’s Choice Awards will be announced at 5:00 PM on the Plaza, adding an element of excitement as barbecue lovers vie for their favorites.

In a fun twist, the Laurens County First Steps pigs will be making a playful breakout during Squealin’ on the Square. These little piggies will be scattered around Laurens Square, and festival-goers are invited to help bring them back! Each pig will have a special collar with instructions for the lucky finders. When you return the lost pig to the Laurens County First Steps booth during Squealin’ on the Square, you’ll be rewarded with a children’s book, generously donated by the Toys for Tots Literacy Program.

Entertainment will be in full swing throughout the event, with a diverse lineup of live bands performing on the Plaza Stage. On Saturday, music enthusiasts can enjoy:

• 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Exit 83 Band
• 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Sweet Soul Music
• 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Stone Groove
• 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Retro 78

In addition to the musical performances, Boo Boo the Clown will be wandering the Square to entertain the kids, and Big Air games will provide fun for festival-goers of all ages.

The festival also boasts over 65 vendors, including local craftspeople, churches, downtown businesses, and non-profit organizations, ensuring that there will be plenty to see and do. Most vendors will offer kid and family activities at their booths, making it a perfect outing for families.

As the Squealin’ on the Square Festival approaches, excitement is building. Attendees can look forward to indulging in delicious barbecue, enjoying live entertainment, and embarking on a fun-filled treasure hunt for the hidden pigs—all while making lasting memories in the heart of Downtown Laurens.