BMX stunt shows to bring new energy to Kinston BBQ Fest
A new attraction is set to roll into Kinston BBQ Fest next month as smART Kinston Foundation’s The Line Action Sports Park hosts multiple BMX stunt shows during the annual event, bringing professional-level riders and a new action sports showcase to downtown Kinston.
The performances are scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday, May 1, and again at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, May 2, according to event information shared with local organizers. Between shows, visitors will also have opportunities for autographs, merchandise sales and meet-and-greet sessions with riders.
The stunt shows will take place at the intersection of Blount and Mitchell streets behind Reynolds Seafood, with performances set against the backdrop of the Flue sculpture by Thomas Sayre, a public art piece that pays tribute to the region’s tobacco heritage.
According to promotional materials provided by organizers, the event is intended to showcase action sports as more than recreation. Organizers describe BMX as a form of artistic expression and personal identity, combining athleticism, style and creativity in a public setting.
The performances by athletes currently training for the Olympics are expected to feature a mix of accomplished riders and aspiring youth athletes, with tricks including barspins, flips and whips. Organizers say the showcase will bring high-caliber BMX talent to the festival and give visitors a chance to interact with riders throughout the weekend. The shows will be presented with support from the Chain Reaction Action Sports stunt team.
The BMX showcase also serves a larger purpose for The Line Action Sports Park, a local project led by Kevin Albritton. Organizers say the event is intended to build support for efforts to develop an Olympic-level BMX course at the former Glen Raven Mills site in Kinston.
While the stunt show is free, The Line plans to sell T-shirts and other merchandise during the festival to support fundraising for the project. All proceeds go to The Line Action Skate Park.
For BBQ Fest organizers, the addition expands the event beyond food and music by introducing a new visual and family-friendly feature in downtown Kinston. For The Line, it offers a chance to draw attention to a growing local effort centered on action sports, youth development and a long-term vision for a premier BMX destination in Kinston.
