Events

Learn from the experts so you can be the expert. GrillFest features multiple events within events. In addition to two cooking stages, be sure to also check out the special features listed below.
 

A ‘Pork’tastic Cook-off:
This Little Piggy Went to
GrillFest Pork Competition

Presented by the Minnesota Pork Board

On Saturday, six chefs will compete head-to-head, grilling up their best pork creations. Judges will taste the six dishes and declare the top two. On Sunday, the final two chefs will create a dish to present to the judges. The judges will then declare the champion.

Saturday, May 19
1:20 p.m. – Pork Competition Round One
2:15 p.m. – Dr. BBQ
3:45 p.m. – Pork Competition Round Two

Sunday, May 20
1:15 p.m. – Mad Dog and Merrill
2 p.m. – Dr. BBQ
3 p.m. – Mad Dog and Merrill
3:45 p.m. – Pork Competition Finale
 

Dr. BBQ Cooking Presentations

Catch cooking presentations throughout the weekend from national chef and author Ray Lampe, aka “Dr. BBQ,” as seen on Food Network and HGTV and in Food & Wine magazine.

Mad Dog and Merrill

The dynamic duo Mad Dog and Merrill, TV hosts and self-proclaimed “Grillologists,” will share tips and secrets on the main stage on Sunday.

Father’s Day “BBQ & A”

Brought to you by Kitchen Window, this expansive GrillFest area is dedicated to gift ideas, grilling tips for Dad, spices, rubs, grill accessories, cigars and so much more.
 

Ultimate Man Cave Tailgating Experience

The Satellite Consultants—DIRECTV tailgating big rig will feature three grills and deliver delicious bites from NO Name Brands. Try your luck at hammerschlagen, a brand of the German game Nailspielen (the “Nail Game” or “Playing With Nails”), which reportedly dates to the first Oktoberfest in 1810. Attendees will receive grilling tips and recipes from the Minnesota Beef Council. Be sure to stop by, everyone at the Man Cave is excited to meat you.

Hennepin County Medical Center Picnic Pavilion

Minnesota in the summer means reunions, family vacations, fun on our 10,000 lakes, exploring state and city parks, and going on road trips to new destinations. Experience the food resources and accessories available to make your outings memorable and safe. A special appearance by Ron Shara and his faithful sidekick, Raven, on Saturday.

Girls “Man” the Grill

Women are turning up the heat. This area features women who “man” the grill. Check out the beer and wine pairings, recipes and tips-swapping. Watch demos hosted by Sue Zelickson.
 

Saturday, May 19
2:20 p.m. – Demo by Lori McCann, Golden Fig
3:20 p.m. – Demo by Lori McCann, Golden Fig
4:20 p.m. – Demo by Sarah Master, Barbette

Sunday, May 20
1:30 p.m. – Demo
3:20 p.m. – Demo by Beth Fisher, Wise Acre Eatery
4:20 p.m. – Demo by Beth Fisher, Wise Acre Eatery

Grills, Grills and Grills!

Croix Valley Sauces featuring:

Quetopia BBQ Smokin’ Pavilion featuring:

The Midwest Pantry Marketplace Tent

Caves of Faribault
Groveland Confections
Judo Joel’s Sauces & Marinades
l.c. finn’s
Locust Lane Vineyard
Lucille’s Kitchen Garden
Malone’s Simply Syrups
Midwest Pantry
Pigtale Twist Gourmet Dressings & Sauces
Worker B. Hand Lotions & Balms
 

Food Trucks–check back! More will be pulling up!

Gastrotruck
The Harvest Grill Mobile
Little G’s Mobile Pizzeria
Road Grill Café
Simply Steve’s
Stanley’s NE Bar Room “Stanley’s On Wheels”
Vellee Deli
 

Restaurant, Wine and Food Artisan Tents

Sample summer menus, and see which restaurants showcase great patios and rooftop dining.
 

Shop for Your Summer Entertainment Needs

From artisan food items to grills; gadgets to toys; recreate GrillFest experiences in your own backyard.
 

Live Music sponsored by:

Saturday, May 19
1-2:45 p.m. – Western Fifth
3:15-5 p.m. – High on Stress

Sunday, May 20
1-2:45 p.m. – The Boys N’ The Barrels
3:15-5 p.m. – Sans Souci Quartet

Times subject to change.