Beer, BBQ, bacon showdown set for Saturday

STANHOPE — The Waterloo Village Concert Field will host New Jersey's first-ever Beer, Barbecue and Bacon Showdown on Saturday. Nov. 7 from 12-5 p.m.

A benefit for the Newton Fire Museum, the inaugural event will pit New Jersey's best breweries and barbecue pits against each other as they vie for best in show in one of five categories, including the prestigious people's choice awards for best dish and best beer.

As a New Jersey-only event, event coordinator Alison Kohler "had to turn away" several out-of-state vendors to ensure a true "Jersey pride" experience.

"We had a tremendous response right away," Kohler said of the interest she received from the nearly three-dozen breweries and restaurants who will be serving at the event.

Tickets are still available online at www.njbeerbbqfest.com and will be available for purchase at the door if any remain on Saturday. General admission is $65 and include a souvenir Mason jar mug and unlimited samples of local beer. VIP admission is $95 and gives patrons an extra hour at the event, exclusive access to the bacon-inspired VIP tasting menu, a meet and greet with the brewers, pitmasters and chefs, and first access to the rare and specialty beer each brewery has created for the event. Designated driver tickets are available for $25, and all tickets provide access to live music, food for purchase, and People's Choice award ballots.

"The weather gods seem to be on our side," Kohler said of the unseasonably warm forecast for Saturday, so she encourages all to come out and enjoy the day, along with some great local food, beer and music.