Community event combines BBQ competition with support for area veterans
WAYNE COUNTY, N.C. — Freedom Biker Church will host its 3rd Annual Veterans Day of Honor and Whole Hog Cook-Off on Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. EST at 669 Tarheel Road in Benson.
The community celebration welcomes all attendees to honor military veterans while enjoying barbecue, music, and prizes. All proceeds from the event will benefit local veterans in need within the community.
Cook-Off Competition Details
Cooking teams can participate for a $150 entry fee and must pre-register through the official contact. The competition follows strict guidelines:
- A mandatory cooks meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on Friday, November 8, where teams will draw their judges’ numbers
- Whole hogs must reach an internal temperature of 180 degrees by 10 a.m. Saturday
- Contest representatives will verify temperatures before teams begin chopping meat
- Judges’ portions will be collected at 11 a.m. in provided clam-style boxes
- Four guest judges will evaluate entries based on taste, texture, and presentation through blind judging
Public sampling begins at 11:30 a.m., with teams serving until their meat is depleted. Winners will be announced at 2 p.m.
Volunteers and Vendors Needed
Organizers are seeking several types of support:
- Vendors can set up free of charge but must register and receive approval by November 5
- Volunteers interested in helping can contact event coordinator Christy
- Door prizes are needed by November 5 and will include donor recognition during giveaways
- Donations to help cover event expenses
- Sponsorships due by November 5
Registration Information
Event coordinator Christy serves as the sole official contact point for registration and inquiries. Organizers caution attendees against potential scams and emphasize that registration should only be completed through Christy@FreedomBikerChurch.com, by texting 919-868-3697, or through the church’s official app at bit.ly/2025VDOH.
For questions, comments, or concerns about the Veterans Day of Honor and Whole Hog Cook-Off, contact Christy at the email or phone number listed above.
