Squealin’ on the Square Draws Record Crowd, Celebrates Successful Return
November 11, 2024
After being postponed due to Hurricane Helene, “Squealin’ on the Square” made a triumphant return this past weekend, welcoming over an estimated 5,000 people to downtown Laurens. With clear skies and perfect fall weather, the two-day festival brought together families, friends, and barbecue lovers from Laurens County and beyond for a weekend filled with live entertainment, great food, and community spirit.
The smell of mouthwatering barbecue filled the air as festival goers explored the 93 booths lining the Square, showcasing a variety of vendors. From BBQ teams and crafters to local businesses, churches, and nonprofits, the event offered something for everyone. The vibrant atmosphere, combined with the impressive entertainment lineup, ensured there was never a dull moment.
A highlight of the weekend was the People’s Choice BBQ Competition, where attendees sampled the best barbecue in town and voted for their favorites. The results were:
- 1st Place: BBQ on the Ave
- 2nd Place: Spears Acres
- 3rd Place: Smokin’ the City
Main Street Laurens Director Craig Scharton expressed his enthusiasm about the event’s success: “The turnout was incredible. After the delay, it was heartwarming to see so many people come out and support our community. We had a fantastic mix of vendors, great entertainment, and, of course, amazing barbecue. This year’s event truly captured the spirit of Laurens.”
Check out our photo gallery at the end of this article for a visual recap of the weekend’s festivities, featuring smiling faces, live performances, and mouthwatering barbecue moments
