Local businesses report large sales at the 39th Annual Lexington Barbecue Festival
{Lead Photo: The Candy Factory by Antionette Kerr/Davidson Local
Local businesses that remained open during the 39th Barbecue Festival report that once again this will be the largest day for sales, this calendar year. Some businesses chose closing as an appropriate alternative.
The Lexington Visitor Center reports the festivals economic impact around 9 million dollars in local revenue making it a perfect example for festivals across the state.
Opening Ceremony {Photo: Joel Leonard/Davidson Local}
Sedley Abercrombie, owner of Pig City Books, said last year was their largest day outside of The Lexington Book Festival. She anticipates similar sales this year. “We’re seeing lots of traffic,” Abercombie said. “Lots of people with positive feedback about the festival.”
Customers of all ages purchase locally from Pig City Books {Photo: Antionette Kerr/Davidson Local}
Student groups from Tyro, West Davidson and Lexington earned tips while selling Pepsi products. The funds raised will support extra-curricular activities. {Photos: Antionette Ker/Davidson Local }
{Photo: Antionette Kerr/Davidson Local}
The Candy Factory is accustomed to large crowds. They handle the tight spaces by limiting the number of customers entering the store. A special line was created for bulk purchases of pig themed cookies.
{Photo: Antionette Kerr/Davidson Local}
Keith and Nancy Miller, owners of The River House Emporium wanted to make sure the store was open even though they were called away this weekend. The Emporium will continue operating as a multi-vendor market of curated antiques, home furnishings, and hand-crafted lifestyle goods. Nancy projected it would be the “biggest day of the year.” Friend Elisa Stewart confirmed that the store was on track to outpace last year during the lunch rush.
The River House Emporium {Photo: Antionette Kerr/Davidson Local}
Sean Bishop, owner of the new Fox & Olive home and floral gallery enjoyed his first festival since opening in early October. “A ton of people came through. This created a lot of interest and was very positive.” {Customers browse as Bishop makes fast friends with County Commissioner Chris Elliott. Photo: Antionette Kerr/Davidson Local}
City Manager Johnnie Taylor expressed excitement about the growth of the festival and the economic impact for Davidson County and surrounding communities.
Lexington City Manager Johnnie Taylor and wife Yolanda. {Photo: Antionette Kerr/Davidson Local}
