Hogs for the Cause, the non-profit organization that provides financial assistance to families with children undergoing treatment for pediatric brain cancer, is back for its 13th annual two-day music festival and barbecue competition. The event will occur on Friday, March 31st, and Saturday, April 1st, at the UNO Lakefront Arena Festival Grounds in New Orleans.
The festival, which has become a staple of New Orleans’ cultural landscape, brings together over 90 competing barbecue teams and 20 contemporary bands, all supporting a good cause. Year-round efforts by the organization culminate in the annual event, which has raised over $6 million to date. The funds provide direct grants to families in need and develop Hogs Houses, a home away from home where families can stay while their children receive extended care.
The festival kicks off on Friday, March 31st, with Bacon Night, presented by Irpino, Avin, and Hawkins Law Firm, returning for its fourth year of competition. The friendly chicken wing competition, “Just Winging It,” presented by Tabasco, also makes a comeback. Guests can mingle with pitmasters and teams while they prepare their meats for Saturday’s competition. In addition to BBQ samples, each team will create a unique bacon dish or wings that will be available for sale. Beer, wine, soft drinks, and food will also be available for purchase.
The Friday music lineup features Devon Allman Project featuring JoJo Hermann of Widespread Panic with special guests George Porter, Jr. and Anders Osborne, Big Something, Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country, Jackie Venson, J & The Causeways, Tomar & the FCs, Nolan Potter’s Nightmare Band, Zita, and Dark Side of the Swamp: Honey Island Swamp Band with Mike Dillon & The Darkside Horns.
On Saturday, April 1st, over 90 teams of BBQ competitors, composed of a mix of some of the region’s top chefs, professional BBQ teams, and backyard cooking fanatics, will compete for the Ben Sarrat, Jr. Cook-Off Grand Champion Title. The Grand Champion is chosen from the winners of the Whole Hog, Ribs, Pork Butt/Shoulder, and Porkpourri (anything pork) divisions. There are also awards for Best Sauce, Fan Favorite, and Fundraising Champion. Patrons may sample food from every team for donations.
The Saturday music lineup includes St. Paul and the Broken Bones, Charles Wesley Godwin, Shinyribs, The Sheepdogs, The Heavy Heavy, The Wilder Blue, Ian Noe, The Deslondes, Zach Person, Andrew Duhon, The Stooges Brass Band and Watson.
Ticket options include 2-Day General Admission for $99, 2-Day Judge’s Pass for $170, 2-Day Boss Hog VIP for $449, 2-Day Goin’ Ham Super VIP for $1000, Friday General Admission for $50, Friday Judges Pass for $80, Friday Boss Hog VIP for $219, Saturday General Admission for $60, Saturday Judges Pass for $95, and Saturday Boss Hog VIP for $249.
To learn more about Hogs for the Cause and how to get involved, visit their website.
