Local Area Events Near Asheville East KOA Holiday

Local Area Events

KCBS Battle in the Blue Ridge Photo

KCBS Battle in the Blue Ridge

We are excited to host the KCBS Battle in the Blue Ridge in Swannanoa, NC on August 7–8, welcoming top barbecue teams from across the United States to the heart of the Swannanoa Valley for a KCBS-sanctioned competition filled with incredible food, spirited rivalry, and meaningful purpose. Proceeds from the event benefit 1 Patriot Project, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting veterans living with mental health disabilities.

The weekend begins Friday night with ancillary competitions, live music, and entertainment for teams and the community. The “Hamburger Hill” Burger Ancillary honors Vietnam veterans by challenging teams to create a burger worthy of its name, with a portion of each entry fee supporting KOA Kids Camp to help children with cancer experience the joy of summer camp. The “Operation Sweet Resilience” Dessert Battle pays tribute to the strength of the Swannanoa Valley following Hurricane Helene in September 2024, celebrating the community's resilience while supporting the Valley Hope Foundation's rebuilding efforts.On Saturday, Master Series teams will compete in the four classic KCBS categories: chicken, ribs, brisket, and pork, delivering high-level barbecue and serious competition throughout the day.

The celebration continues alongside the Sourwood Festival, where guests can visit the vendor table and take part in People's Choice Pork, sampling entries and voting for their favorite team.This weekend is about more than trophies. It is about honoring veterans, supporting the Swannanoa Valley, showcasing elite barbecue talent, and bringing the community together, and we are proud to be part of it.