Ticket Sales Open for BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark in June
April 29, 2024
Tickets are on sale for the second annual BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark on Saturday, June 22 at Principal Park in Des Moines. Organized by the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) and the Iowa Cubs, this family friendly event includes a pork barbecue competition while raising money for Iowa food banks.
Attendees can sample each competitor's pork and cast a vote for their favorite. A ticket also includes 15 samples of Iowa-brewed beers, along with grilled pork loin sandwiches provided by Iowa-based Berkwood Farms and Smokey D’s BBQ, a restaurant in Des Moines.
“BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark is a terrific celebration of pork and a great way to give back to people in our communities who are in need,” said IPPA President Matt Gent, a pig farmer from Wellman. “Proceeds help fight food insecurity in Iowa. Last year’s inaugural event raised more than $20,000 for Iowa food pantries, and we hope to do even better this year.”
In addition, the event will feature grilling tips from Netflix "Barbecue Showdown" champion Thyron Mathews, an Iowa resident, as well as live music from local musicians.
Tickets are $20 in advance, or $30 at the door. For those who aren't interested in beer samples, no-alcohol tickets cost just $15. Kids 5 and younger are admitted free.
“We love it when the ballpark can be a gathering place in the community for fun events that everyone can enjoy," said Randy Wehofer, assistant general manager of the Iowa Cubs. "We appreciate the partnership with the Iowa Pork Producers Association to create something that combines great food, great fun, and great service to our community. With last summer's event being a success, we are really looking forward to making this year’s BBQ & Brew at Principal Park even better!"
A few slots are still open for the barbecue competition.
Fareway Stores, another event sponsor, will provide resources and support for food bank donations.