BBQ for Books with a Side of Bluegrass is back—and better than ever! Join us for one of Stokes County’s favorite nights of fun, fellowship, and fundraising on Friday, October 9, 2026, at beautiful Nana Mac Meadows, nestled at the foot of Pilot Mountain.

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Get ready for an unforgettable evening filled with the best of Stokes County hospitality—delicious barbecue, lively bluegrass music, exciting auctions, games, and community spirit. Doors open at 5:00 p.m., giving you time to settle in, enjoy the scenic setting, and connect with friends old and new. Dinner will be served from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., featuring mouthwatering barbecue prepared by the legendary Dennis Ruff. A beer and wine bar will also be available through 8:00 p.m.

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Browse our live and silent auctions for unique items and experiences, and enjoy games and surprises throughout the night. Whether you come for the food, the music, or the cause, there’s something for everyone.

Most importantly, every ticket purchased helps support critical early literacy and early childhood programs serving more than 2,500 young children in Stokes County. Proceeds benefit initiatives such as Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, Raising a Reader, Book Walks, and Reach Out and Read Literacy Corners—helping children build strong foundations for lifelong success.

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Come hungry, bring your friends, and enjoy a night where every laugh, every bid, and every bite helps change a child’s future. BBQ for Books with a Side of Bluegrass is more than an event—it’s a celebration of community and opportunity. We can’t wait to see you there!

 

Red Camel Collective Biography

 

Red Camel Collective is a bluegrass band comprised of multi-talented instrumentalists and singers, Heather Berry Mabe, Tony Mabe, Curt Love, and Johnathan Dillon. You may recognize those names, as these pickers have been members of the Junior Sisk Band for several years. John, Curt, Heather, and Tony felt the time was right to try their hand at a venture of their own, while still proudly playing with the Junior Sisk Band. They chose the name "Red Camel Collective," to pay homage to Junior and one of his hit songs called "The Man In Red Camels." For those who may not know, Red Camels are a vintage clothing brand known specifically for their overalls.

 

The band's sound is quite eclectic, ranging from traditional bluegrass and classic country, to fresh modern sounds all their own.

 

During the spring of 2025, RCC's debut album spent 3 months at #1 on the Bluegrass Unlimited Album Chart. An amazing feat for a brand new band!

 

In 2024 lead singer Heather Berry Mabe won IBMA Momentum Vocalist of the Year. This year the band received the prestigious IBMA New Artist of the Year Award!

 

If you like pure, heartfelt, beautiful singing and smooth, rhythmic, top notch picking, then you are sure to love Red Camel Collective!

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