For the 44th time, BBQ and gospel music will appear in Columbus for an event that has been raising money for the Columbus Fire Department since 1973.

The event draws hundreds of people each year over the four days before Independence Day from many area counties to the firehouse for food and the Veterans Park for music.

Gospel performers in national and local standings have taken the stage time and time again to provide the audience with four great nights of music, while firemen slow cook day and night keeping the grills hot and busy.

This Friday, June 30, the event kicks off with The Principles of Tennessee whose hit song “I want us to be together in heaven” was one of the big gospel hits of the 1980s. In addition, well loved vocalist Brian Birchfield of Tennessee, the Henderson County group “Soul Vision” who have just had their first top 40 single nationwide, and local Polk County group “Turning Point” featuring the Stamper Brothers of Green River Cove, will all perform.

On Saturday, July 1, Johnston, S.C.-based group The Brazzell take the stage along with two Greenville County groups, The Atkins Family and Wells of Joy, and the Polk County group Joyful Noise.

Sunday night will feature bluegrass Gospel music including national charting singles from The King James Boys from Cowpens and Carolina Blue from Transylvania. Count along with Rutherford County Line and Saluda’s own, Colt Creek Bluegrass.

Monday, the final night, will feature nationally known vocalist Mike Upright, who has had over two dozen top 40 gospel singles; the Watkins Family of Toccoa, Ga., a member of the Georgia Music Hall of Fame; the Philips Family of Gaffney; plus the Master’s Singers of Chesnee who have performed at the event 42 times so far.

Music begins at 7 p.m. each night, however food is served in the firehouse beginning at lunch.

In case of rain, music will be held at the Columbus Baptist Church.

Food is for sale at reasonable prices. There is no admission charge but donations will be accepted for music. Call 828-817-3722 for more information.