Tickets on sale for first BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark event in Des Moines
May 4, 2023
Tickets are on sale for the inaugural BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark. The event takes place on Saturday, July 15 at Principal Park in Des Moines from noon to 4 p.m. There is no baseball game that day, but Principal Park will be open, and Iowans can sample Iowa pork, sip beer from Iowa breweries, and learn grilling skills from barbecue experts. Music, food vendors, and other entertainment will also be provided for this family friendly event.
One of the highlights of the event is a Backyard BBQ Competition, with proceeds benefiting local food pantries. Amateur grill masters from across Iowa will showcase their skills cooking high quality Iowa pork. More than $10,000 in cash prizes are available and attendees can help determine the winners of the charity competition.
“This unique event will be a celebration of Iowa pork and Iowa craft beers, while raising money to help feed Iowans in need,” said Trish Cook, president of the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA). “We’ve never had an event in the Des Moines area quite like BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark, and it’s going to be one you’re not going to want to miss."
The IPPA is partnering with the Iowa Cubs and Cactus Cares to host BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark. Full price tickets cost $25, with $5 from every ticket purchase helping to provide pork for local food pantries. If you just want the BBQ experience, without the brew, tickets cost $15. Kids 5 and under get in free. Purchase your ticket today.
“We’re really excited to host the inaugural BBQ & Brew at Principal Park this summer,” said Randy Wehofer, the Iowa Cubs’ assistant general manager. “We love it when the ballpark can be a gathering place in the community for fun events that everyone can enjoy. We appreciate the partnership with the Iowa Pork Producers Association and Cactus Cares to create something that combines great food, great fun, and great service to our community."
Slots are still open for the Backyard BBQ Competition. The entry fee for competitors is $150. All the meat for the competition will be provided by Berkwood Farms and the IPPA. Fareway will be providing numerous resources for BBQ and Brew at the Ballpark.
“Cactus Cares is thrilled to be part of the inaugural BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark,” said Wayne Craig, executive director of Cactus Cares. “The charity competition, or People’s Choice, will allow attendees to show their support for their favorite grill master, and all proceeds will be used to purchase pork for the food insecure in Iowa.”
Cactus Cares is a nonprofit organization that supports local food pantries.
To register to compete in the BBQ & Brew Backyard BBQ Competition and get more information, click here.