In the early hours of Thursday, August 12, 2024, a fire broke out at the beloved Corolla Village Bar-B-Que in the Outer Banks, North Carolina. The blaze began around 4 a.m., causing significant damage to the establishment. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. As a result of the damage, the restaurant announced it would close for the remainder of the 2024 season. This closure has left both locals and visitors saddened, as Corolla Village Bar-B-Que has been a staple in the community, known for its traditional barbecue offerings and rustic charm.
In response to the incident, the community has rallied to support the restaurant’s owners and staff. A barbecue fundraiser was organized at the neighboring business, the Kind Cup coffee shop, on Sunday, August 18, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Additionally, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to assist with recovery efforts, quickly meeting its fundraising goal, reflecting the strong community ties and the restaurant’s cherished status among patrons.
This event highlights the vulnerability of historic and iconic establishments in the Outer Banks. The region has faced similar incidents in the past, emphasizing the importance of fire safety and preparedness. Local authorities often conduct controlled burns as part of training and safety measures. For instance, the Nags Head Fire Department conducted a controlled burn at a former restaurant site, owned by the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau, to train firefighters and manage potential fire hazards.
The loss of Corolla Village Bar-B-Que is a significant blow to the local culinary scene. Established years ago, the restaurant has been renowned for its authentic barbecue, attracting both residents and tourists. Its closure not only affects the owners and employees but also the local economy, which benefits from the tourism and patronage the restaurant drew.
Efforts to rebuild and restore the establishment are anticipated, given the outpouring of community support. The resilience of the Outer Banks community has been evident in past adversities, and this situation is no exception. While the immediate future of the restaurant remains uncertain, the collective hope is for its return in the next season, continuing its legacy and contribution to the area’s rich culinary heritage.
In the meantime, patrons and supporters are encouraged to contribute to ongoing fundraising efforts and to support other local businesses in the area. The spirit of community and solidarity remains strong in the Outer Banks, as residents and visitors alike look forward to the restoration of one of their favorite dining spots.
For more information on the fire and the community’s response, local news outlets and social media platforms are providing updates as the situation develops. Staying informed and engaged with community initiatives will aid in the swift recovery and rebuilding of Corolla Village Bar-B-Que.
In conclusion, the devastating fire at Corolla Village Bar-B-Que has had a profound impact on the Outer Banks community. The immediate response showcases the strong communal bonds and the collective effort to overcome this setback. As investigations continue and rebuilding plans emerge, the hope is for the restaurant to reopen and continue serving its cherished barbecue to the community and visitors alike.
For a visual overview of the incident, you can watch the following news segment:
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