Get ready for a sizzling celebration of Iowa pork! The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA), in partnership with the Iowa Cubs and Fareway, is bringing BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark back for its third year this Saturday, June 21, at Principal Park in Des Moines. The event runs from noon to 4 p.m. and promises to be bigger, better, and more flavorful than ever.
At its core, BBQ & Brew is more than just a showcase of pork and craft beer—it’s a community-driven effort to fight food insecurity across Iowa. Last year’s event raised over $20,000 for food banks, and organizers are aiming even higher this year.
What to Expect:
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A pork barbecue competition with $12,000 in prize money
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Delicious pork samples from top teams—fans can vote for the People’s Choice Champion
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Featured tastings from Iowa Machine Shed, Fareway Meat Markets in Ames and Beaverdale, Story County Pork Producers, and local pitmaster Joe Osbrink
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BBQ Bootcamps led by Netflix Barbecue Showdown champion Thyron Mathews and competition grillmasters Josh DeWitt and Jeremy Williams, hosted by BW Outdoors
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Craft beer and cider tastings from dozen-plus regional brewers, including Toppling Goliath, Reclaimed Rails, Court Avenue Brewery, Exile, Atomic Brands, and more
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Live music, games for the whole family (including mini golf), raffle prizes like a Camp Chef XT Pellet Grill, and celebrity judges
IPPA President and pig farmer Aaron Juergens of Carroll highlighted the event’s broader mission:
“BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark is a fun, flavorful way to bring people together and support our neighbors. Food insecurity is still impacting families across the state, and this event is a great opportunity to celebrate Iowa pork while helping stock the shelves at local food banks.”
Advance tickets are $20 ($30 at the gate), with kids 10 and under free. Tickets are available now at IowaPork.org.
Fareway is once again supporting the event by providing top-quality Iowa pork and logistics.
“Supporting local events like BBQ & Brew reflects our deep commitment to community, quality, and connection,” said Jeff Cook, VP of Market Operations at Fareway.
Randy Wehofer, assistant general manager of the Iowa Cubs, also praised the partnership:
“Our work with Iowa Pork has turned Principal Park into more than just a ballpark—it’s a place where the community gathers to enjoy great food and celebrate shared traditions.”
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the best of Iowa pork, enjoy cold brews, and support a great cause—all in one unforgettable afternoon.
