Hundreds of Iowans gathered at Principal Park on June 21 for the third annual BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark, raising more than $20,000 to support food banks across the state. The family-friendly event was presented by the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) in partnership with the Iowa Cubs and Fareway Stores.
“Events like BBQ & Brew show how strong our communities are when we come together for a common cause,” said Doug Gruver, IPPA board member and two-time event volunteer. “Giving back is at the heart of what we do as pork producers. Whether it’s raising food or raising funds, we’re proud to serve Iowans beyond the farm. This event is also a great opportunity to showcase the high-quality product we raise in Iowa and the incredible BBQ talent and passion of the teams who compete.”
This year’s event featured 24 backyard barbecue teams competing for $12,000 in prize money across three pork categories: loin, ribs, and butt. Fareway Stores played a critical role in making the event possible, generously donating all the pork used in the competition and supporting the effort to feed Iowans in need. Their contribution, along with free pork samples provided by Iowa Machine Shed, the Ames and Beaverdale Fareway Meat Markets, Story County Pork Producers, and local BBQ enthusiast Joe Osbrink, helped create a memorable experience for attendees.
Backroad BBQ of Ames earned the title of Grand Champion, while Brown Dog BBQ from Stuart was named Reserve Grand Champion. Slap Your Bacon BBQ from Ankeny placed third overall and won the People’s Choice Award, securing $1,000 in prize money and directing a $1,000 donation to the North Polk Comet Cupboard food pantry in Polk City.
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