CHARLOTTE – The 80th annual Mallard Creek Presbyterian Church Barbecue attracted thousands of people for lunch in Charlotte Thursday. And diners were greeted by dozens of political candidates vying for some of the top spots in the city.

While dozens were there to campaign, all eyes were on the upcoming mayoral race. With less than two weeks until the election, the barbecue was a final chance to win voters.

“I've been out here when it's been raining and it's been mud, but every year, you see thousands of people coming out to the Mallard Creek Barbecue,” Democratic mayoral candidate Anthony Foxx said. “It's a cultural extravaganza for our city, and I'm delighted to be here.”

“This is kind of the kick of the campaign season,” Republican mayoral candidate John Lassiter said. “People worry less about debates and more about what kind of barbecue we're having, and I've enjoyed this as a candidate, as a citizen, just kind of kick off the political season.”

The event served up 13,000 pounds of barbecue, 2,500 pounds of stew and two tons of coleslaw. Election Day is Nov. 3.