Often referred to as the “Barbecue capital of the world”, Lexington, North Carolina, lives within Davidson County, and in the Piedmont region. The 2020 Census found that around 19,600 residents call the 18-square-mile city of Lexington home. 

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While the city may first offer a small-town charm, its reputation across the country is notable. Lexington is praised nationally, even commended by the New York Times, for its massive barbecue festival that is hosted every year, which brings in about 200,000 people for each celebration. Outside of the pork and music provided in the autumn festival, downtown Lexington is known for its cherished sweets at The Candy Factory and hardware shops such as The Army Store, and the tried and true, century-old Conrad and Hinkle grocery and deli. 

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Vibrant pig statues are spread across Lexington on sidewalks and guard storefronts; these creative pigs hint at the shared culture within Lexington. Both visitors and residents are brought together over a strong passion for Lexington-style barbecue, known primarily as a vinegar-based style for preparing and cooking pork. This style of barbecue began with the practice of cooking pork in smoker pits, and the tradition has been passed down through local families. Outside of the festival, Lexington-style barbeque is still promoted within at least 12 local restaurants such as Speedys, Barbeque Center, and Backcountry. Attractions such as wineries, a top NASCAR shop, and a museum surround the area, bringing in additional visitors to the city. 

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On the horizon, Lexington is looking to expand both its revenue and interest with its investment in a train rail station through the awarding of a 25 million dollar grant from the US Department of Transportation for the Depot District Passenger Rail Station. The upcoming train restoration is expected to bring increased transportation and connections from across the state to the city, and much of the local community is looking forward to the upcoming change.

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–Stella Navin