Best Dam Food Festival Tega Cay
*The event has already taken place on this date: Sat, 05/09/2026
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TEGA CAY'S AWARD-WINNING BEST DAM FOOD FESTIVAL RETURNS MAY 9TH WITH LIVE COUNTRY MUSIC, FOOD VENDORS, AND FAMILY FUN
North Carolina Festival and Events Conference Honors Event as "Best New Event" and an "Event to Watch in the Carolinas"
TEGA CAY, SC – The City of Tega Cay announces the return of the Best Dam Food Festival on Saturday, May 9th, from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Catawba Park. Following its recognition as "Best New Event" at the prestigious North Carolina Festival and Events Conference and being rated as an "Event to Watch in the Carolinas," this beloved community celebration promises an even more unforgettable experience of live music, delicious food, and family-friendly entertainment along the scenic Catawba Dam.
"Come hungry, leave happy, and create lasting memories at the Best Dam Food Festival," says Park and Rec Director Dustin Overton. "After receiving such incredible recognition at the North Carolina Festival and Events Conference, we're thrilled to bring back this award-winning event. It's always a great day in Tega Cay, and this year's festival is set to be our best yet,” added Overton.
The festival will feature Legends of New Country, a high-energy tribute to country music superstars Lainey Wilson and Morgan Wallen. Festival-goers can also expect to jam by the dam with by Tega Cay’s very own Jam Garden and Brandon Sluka while enjoying a spectacular array of culinary offerings from local food vendors.
A highlight of this year's festival is the interactive voting component, where attendees will sample dishes from multiple food vendors and cast their votes for Best Dam Food Vendor (Favorite Entrée) and Best Dam Dessert. "Your taste buds are the judges," say Event Manager Carolina Hasty, encouraging attendees to arrive hungry and ready to taste a variety of culinary offerings.
The family-friendly festival will offer free amusements for all ages, a beer garden for adults, arts and craft vendors showcasing local artisans, and continuous live music throughout the day. The Best Dam Food Festival will take place at Catawba Park, located next to the dam on New Gray Rock Road, featuring grand ballfields, a playground, walking trails, and a spacious event lawn. Parking will be available at Catawba Park, with overflow parking at Gold Hill Elementary School from 1:30 PM to 10:00 PM.
The Best Dam Food Festival is a rain-or-shine event. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets, and their Carolina spirit for a day of non-stop entertainment. "Get ready to jam by the dam and experience the ultimate Carolina fun in Catawba Park," Overton said. "We're proud to bring this award-winning event back to our community."
For more information about the Best Dam Food Festival, please contact the Tega Cay Community Events Manager Caroline Hasty chasty@tegacaysc.gov or visit our events page tegacaysc.org.
*Times, dates, and prices of any activity posted to our calendars are subject to change. Please be sure to click through directly to the organization’s website to verify.