Since its founding, the Gulf Coast Beer and Bacon Festival has only grown bigger — and more mouth-watering.
And there’s good news for your tastebuds in 2026: The sell-out event is expanding to a two-day festival this year — doubling the deliciousness and the opportunities to support the nonprofit Mississippi Heroes. Now branded the Gulf Coast Beer, Bacon & Beyond Festival, this outdoor celebration of craft beverages, creative dishes, live music and community impact returns March 13-14 to the Long Beach Town Green.
“The atmosphere is energetic, upbeat, fun and very welcoming — a true Gulf Coast vibe,” says Katherine Sutton, founder and executive director of Mississippi Heroes. “Think live music under the stars, people laughing with friends, chefs proudly serving their best dishes and a shared sense that everyone there is part of something meaningful.”
COMPETITION MEETS COMMUNITY
Sutton adds that the festival began seven years ago as a grassroots fundraiser for Mississippi Heroes and has become one of the Coast’s most anticipated events — attracting a diverse crowd of young professionals, foodies, beer enthusiasts, veterans, caregivers, first responders and visitors from across the Southeast and beyond.
“Each year we always have some guests who fly in for the weekend,” Sutton says. “We expect well over 1,000 attendees over two nights, with attendance steadily growing each year as the event expands in size, scope and regional recognition.”
As always, competitors will vie for Golden Ticket opportunities to participate in the World Food Championships — including a third Golden Ticket added this year for Best Burger. Those in attendance will pick People’s Choice award winners across multiple categories as they sample delectable food and drink.
“Guests can expect tastings from breweries, distilleries and cocktail vendors, culinary bites from local restaurants and cooking teams, live music both nights and friendly competition — all for a powerful cause,” Sutton says.
BLENDING FUN WITH PURPOSE
With every ticket sold, attendees aren’t just investing in a great time; they’re helping people in need. Festival proceeds support Mississippi Heroes’ Ramp It Up program, which funds wheelchair ramps for veterans, seniors and those with disabilities.
“This event is about more than food and drinks; it’s about dignity, independence and neighbors helping neighbors,“ Sutton says. “Every laugh, every toast and every ticket purchased helps someone safely enter or exit their home. That’s something worth celebrating.”
The nonprofit’s goal for this year is to double its community impact, build even more ramps in 2026 and continue growing the festival as a signature Gulf Coast event. Sutton says attendees can look forward to new flavors, new music and seeing firsthand how their participation changes lives.
“Beer, Bacon & Beyond brings together local restaurants, breweries, sponsors, volunteers, first responders, artists, musicians and neighbors for a shared mission,” she adds. “It’s a reminder that when the community comes together, incredible things happen.”
IF YOU GO
Gulf Coast Beer, Bacon and Beyond Festival
- March 13-14; VIP entry: 6–10 p.m., General admission: 7–10 p.m.
- Long Beach Town Green
- Cost: General admission, $75; VIP tickets, $100
- For more information: visit www.gcbeerbaconfest.com or call (228) 234-4649.
