46th Annual Bog-Off Festival is Saturday

By Kaye Collins

The 46th Annual Bog-Off Festival is this Saturday, Oct. 18, in downtown Loris from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Loris Bog-Off Festival is a vibrant celebration of the arts, culture, and community spirit found in Loris, South Carolina. A key highlight of the festival is the presentation of “chicken bog,” a cherished local dish. This substantial and flavorful meal comprising chicken, sausage, rice, and a mix of spices serves as a cornerstone of the region’s culinary offerings. The festival showcases a diverse array of food vendors, live music performances, craft booths, and activities suitable for families, all of which contribute to a lively atmosphere that draws visitors from both nearby and distant locations. Named to honor Loris’ rich heritage and the local arts community, the festival provides a distinctive opportunity to immerse oneself in the charm and gourmet pleasures of the region.

The day’s first event is the 5K race, which is sponsored by the Loris Chamber of Commerce and Horry County Parks and Recreation. Runners are expected to gather at the intersection of Casey Street and Meeting Street prior to the 8 a.m. start. Parking passes will be issued to registered participants. Runners can collect their packets on Friday, Oct. 17, at the atrium of the Government Justice Center located at 1301 Second Avenue, Conway, from 9 to 11 a.m. Additionally, late registration and packet pickup will occur on Saturday, Oct. 18, at the corner of Casey and Meeting Streets. A tent will be set up by Horry County Parks and Recreation. Awards will be distributed based on the Age Division Structure: (Age group awards are determined by net chip time) 0 to 9, 10 to 19, 20 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 50 to 59, 60 to 69, and 70 plus.

The opening statements begin at 9 a.m. Entertainment will take place at the Main Stage located on Meeting Street. Bleachers have been arranged for seating; some attendees bring their own chairs while others choose to sit on the curb to enjoy the performances of the Loris schools chorus.

Two hundred vendors have confirmed their participation at this year’s Loris Bog-Off Festival. The Car Show features QR codes displayed on the windshields of the registered vehicles, allowing attendees to vote for their favorite car.

The Chicken Bog Cooking Contest invites amateur chefs to compete for the title of ‘Best Bog’. Limited tickets for the People’s Choice will be available for purchase, enabling attendees to sample each contestant’s chicken bog and cast their vote for the best. Prizes include a trophy and $1,000 for the winner, a trophy and $500 for the runner-up, and a trophy and $250 for the People’s Choice winner. Additionally, the Top Bog is a new competition aimed at professional chefs competing for the Top Bog title.

There will be two children friendly zones with children and family events. Chicken bog plates will be available for $10 at the Chicken Bog Tent on Railroad Avenue. Local eateries will have their chicken bog prepared and ready for customers to place their orders.

Live entertainment will be featured on stage throughout the day. A ‘Pit Stop Karaoke’ competition is scheduled for 2 p.m. The Mountain Dew Contest and the Chicken Clucking Contest will take place at the main stage.

“We anticipate wonderful weather and an enjoyable experience in Loris,” says Samantha Norris. “We hope everyone will come out and participate in the 46th Annual Loris Bog-Off Festival.”

The upcoming events organized by the chamber include Cake Pop Night for Downtown Tuesday, October 21. The Monster Mash Halloween Trunk or Treat, which will take place on Friday, October 31, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. A costume contest will also be held.