RIDGEWAY, S.C. — In Fairfield County, residents across the Midlands and the state gathered on Saturday to celebrate the 25th year of "Pig on the Ridge."
This tradition in Ridgeway involves a serious barbecue competition at the pro and backyard levels, with the first-place winners taking home $2,000 for the pro level and $500 for the backyard level.
Organizers said about 4,000 people showed up Friday night through Saturday morning. In addition to the barbecue, there were vendors, food trucks, a car show, and a kids' area. The barbecue was cooked overnight, and awards were presented on Saturday afternoon.
"It's probably one of the biggest and best barbecue competitions I've ever been to, and I have been to several of them," said Mack Miles, former Pig on the Ridge committee member. "But to see a bunch of people with no trouble … I mean, we do have police presence, but no trouble; just a great atmosphere to be in and being kid-friendly -- it's the best way to go."
Miles said people come from Turbeville, Florence, Conway and parts of Georgia to participate in the competition or attend with family and friends.
"They just love coming up here because it’s a small town," Miles said. "We’ve got restaurants, and you can get to everything walking distance-wise. I own a business one street over, so it’s easy to get to. Everything’s within walking distance, and it’s a fun atmosphere."
If you didn't make it this year, mark your calendars for the first weekend in November 2025.