The lowly staple food of many a farming family in Columbus County is taking center stage this weekend in Tabor City.
The 52nd annual Yam Festival starts Saturday morning with the parade at 10. The parade will be broadcast live on the Columbuscountynews.com Facebook page, hosted by Darrell Jackson.
Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy pie eating contests, music and entertainment, and a host of other activities designed for the entire family. Area mascots will test their speed and skills in the sweet potato on a spoon race.
An all-class reunion for Tabor City schools will start at 2 p.m. at The Ritz on Main. Teachers, students, graduates, administrators and anyone who worked or attended schools in Tabor is welcome to join the event.
Throughout the day, self-guided historical tours, a classic tractor, car and truck show, the Yam Festival Art show, and much more will be available.
North Carolina is the largest producer of yams and sweet potatoes in the country, and Tabor City has been the center of yam production for decades. The tuber can be fried, baked, steamed, and cooked countless ways.
For the full list and schedule of events, go to ncyamfestival.com.
