The Beer Barn in Kinston will host "Popp’n Smoke," a community event marking the start of Veterans Day celebrations. Scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 2, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., the event aims to bring the community together while raising funds for veteran service organizations and G.I. Joe’s Living History Museum.

"Together, we rise above the smoke. Whether veteran or civilian, we can achieve anything when we stand united in support of our heroes. Join us at the Beer Barn on November 2nd for a day of fun at Popp'n Smoke! Bring your Jeep, overland vehicle, or motorcycle to ride in the poker run. Play cornhole, let the kids jump on the inflatables, and don’t forget to grab a plate or two of delicious Eastern North Carolina barbecue, potato salad, slaw, and cornbread to take home. Let’s celebrate our shared strength and commitment to our veteran service organizations!" said Stacy Heath, President of Salute.

"Veteran organizations, veterans in general, continue to serve their communities long after they leave military service. This event is a way for them to raise money in order to continue to support their communities and other veterans. Monies raised by the various organizations go to help with suicide prevention, scholarships, disaster relief, community service, among other causes," said Hannah McLawhorn.

The event will feature a variety of activities, including a BBQ plate sale, a poker run for motorcycles and Jeeps, a show & shine competition, and a cornhole tournament. Guests can enjoy live music throughout the day, with DJ Bryan Hanks keeping the energy high and a live band performance from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Registration for events and additional information can be found at looknc.com/Poppnsmoke. For inquiries, contact poppnsmoke24@gmail.com.

Event Details and Registration

• Cornhole Tournament: Registration from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., with the competition starting at noon. Entry is $50 per team or $40 with the donation of a new, unwrapped toy.

• Poker Run: Registration from 9 a.m. to noon. The run starts at 10 a.m. and participants must return by 3 p.m. Entry fees are $30, or $20 with a toy donation.

• Show & Shine Competition: Open to both motorcycles and off-road vehicles. Registration is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with judging from 4:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Entry is $30 or $20 with a toy donation.

Winners of the cornhole tournament, poker run, and show & shine competition will be announced at 5 p.m. The festivities will continue with an Eastern NC BBQ competition, starting plate sales at 5 p.m. Each plate, priced at $12, will include meat, two sides, hush puppies, and dessert.

Breakfast will also be available from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., featuring sausage dogs for $3.

About G.I. Joe’s Living History Museum

G.I. Joe’s Living History Museum has its roots in a 2000 performance at the Lincoln Memorial, conceived by Vietnam veteran Ted Sampley and dance instructor Mary Beth Dawson. Their mission was to honor veterans and educate the public on their sacrifices. Following the success of the initial show, the project was brought to Kinston, where it continues to celebrate and preserve the legacy of military service.

Mark your calendars for this special community event to honor our veterans and support local veteran organizations.