Tickets on sale for BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark

Beef ribs being basted with bbq sauce on a grill with a basting brush (Photo: iStock - Frank Armstrong)

Tickets are on sale for the second annual BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark. The event takes place from 2 to 7 p.m. June 22 at Principal Park in Des Moines, Iowa. Organized by the Iowa Pork Producers Association and the Iowa Cubs, this event includes a backyard barbecue competition featuring contestants from all over the state contending for more than $10,000 in prize money.

For the cost of a ticket, attendees can sample the competitors’ pork, plus Smokey D’s BBQ. Berkwood Farms will provide grilled pork loin sandwiches, and samples from Iowa’s top craft breweries will be available. Those attending also will be able to cast a vote for their favorite Backyard BBQer in the Peoples’ Choice competition.

Iowa Pork Producers Association President Matt Gent, a pig farmer from Wellman, said proceeds help fight food insecurity in Iowa. Last year’s inaugural event raised more than $20,000 for Iowa food pantries.

Tickets cost just $20 if purchased ahead of the event or $30 at the event. Youth ages 5 and younger get in free. For more information visit IowaPork.org.