Tega Cay’s ‘Best Dam Food Festival’ next door to the Lake Wylie Dam is May 9
Catawba Park and the Lake Wylie Dam that created the lake from the Catawba River will again be in the spotlight May 9 as Tega Cay hosts its annual Best Dam Food Festival at the city park adjacent to the shore.
Now in its third year, the festival near the iconic dam already has created a unique spot in York County’s Spring event calendar with its lovely location along the Catawba River at the 62-acre city park. Tega Cay is a mainly residential city of around 15,000 residents next to Charlotte and Fort Mill. Catawba Park opened in 2022.
There will be food vendors selling everything from sweets to meats for almost any palate along the “Munchie Mile,” along with bands playing all day in what has been dubbed “Jammin’ by the Dam.” One of the slogans is “Come hungry, leave happy.”
Admission and parking are free.
The festival garnered the “Rising Star “award in February for newer events at the N.C. Association of Festivals & Events that includes South Carolina. This year’s festival has a special meaning because the dam itself — owned by Duke Energy — celebrated its 100-year anniversary in November, said Carolina Hasty, events manager for the city.
“We are excited to share this unique place with people from all over,” Hasty said.
What: Tega Cay’s “Best Dam Food Festival”
Where: Catawba Park, 2351 New Gray Rock Road, Tega Cay. South Carolina
When: 2 to 10 p.m. May 9
Admission: Free
Parking: Free. The park has limited parking. A free shuttle service is available from satellite parking at Carolinas Cornerstone Church, 1790 Gardendale Road.
Important notes: Pets, coolers, outside food and drink, alcohol and weapons are not permitted. The festival does not allow bicycles, skateboards, rollerblades or scooters.
