Hogs for the Cause: A Festival of Barbecue, Music, and Charity
Credit: Instagram @hogsforthecause
Who: BBQ enthusiasts, music lovers, families
What: BBQ competition, music festival, charity fundraiser
Where: About a 15 minute Uber to the UNO Lakefront Arena festival grounds
When: April 5-6, 2024
How much: From $50 for one-day passes
Hogs for the Cause represents the epitome of New Orleans' spirit: a vibrant blend of culinary artistry, musical talent, and community service. Since its inception in 2008 by locals Rene Louapre and Becker Hall, the festival has grown from a traditional pig roast into one of the country's largest barbecue and music festivals. Attracting over 30,000 attendees, the event offers a weekend of indulgence in over-the-top meat dishes, eclectic music from Americana staples to emerging artists, and an opportunity to support a noble cause.
The heart of the festival lies in its mission: raising funds for children battling pediatric brain cancer. Through partnerships with local and national children's hospitals, Hogs for the Cause has distributed over $11 million in grants and aid, directly supporting over 200 families. The festival's unique blend of joy and generosity provides a platform for barbecue aficionados and music fans to enjoy an unforgettable experience while making a significant impact on families in need.
Attendees can look forward to a cook-off competition with categories like whole hog, ribs, and sauce, alongside a music lineup featuring Band of Horses, Shane Smith & the Saints, The Record Company, and Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country. Beyond the barbecue and beats, the festival offers exclusive experiences such as access to a Bourbon Lounge with rare samples, ensuring a truly immersive festival atmosphere.
For those eager to be part of this exceptional event, two-day tickets are available online, with the promise of single-day tickets closer to the event date. Whether you're a barbecue enthusiast, a music aficionado, or simply in search of a meaningful way to enjoy the best of New Orleans, Hogs for the Cause invites you to join a community united in good food, great music, and a great cause.
For more information visit https://hogsfest.org