Your Excuse to Skip Cooking Dinner Just Showed Up

Real talk: if your idea of a wild Saturday night lately involves finding the TV remote before you fall asleep at 9:15, I get it. But mark your calendar, because August 8th just became the night you actually leave the house — and this time, someone else is making the burgers.

We’re talking about BBQ & Brew Fest, and it’s rolling back into the Elkhart County Fairgrounds in Goshen for a good old-fashioned evening of food, friends, and zero dishes to wash afterward.

So What Exactly Is Happening?

Picture this: local grill teams from businesses all over the county going head-to-head, competing for bragging rights as 2026 Grill Master. You don’t just watch — you vote. Every wristband comes with a ticket so you can cast your ballot for the best burger creation of the night.

There’s also a friendly little competition for “Biggest Club Advocate,” where the grill team that raises the most money for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County takes home the title. So basically, every burger you eat is doing double duty — filling your belly and supporting local kids. Win-win.

Here’s the rundown:

• 📅 When: Saturday, August 8th, 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.
• 📍 Where: Elkhart County Fairgrounds, Goshen (enter at Gate 2)
• 🍔 What: Gourmet burger creations, craft beer, a full-service bar, and live music
• 🎟️ Cost: $80 for adult wristbands (food, drink, parking & entertainment included), $45 for designated drivers, $20 for students, and free for kids under 12

Wait — There’s a Kids Zone?

Yes, and this is the part that matters most to you. There’s a dedicated, alcohol-free kids zone run by Club staff, packed with activities to keep the little ones entertained while you actually get to finish a sentence with an adult. Later in the evening, they’ll even roll out a kid-friendly movie on the big screen so everyone can wind down on the grass together.

Translation: this isn’t a “find a sitter” kind of night. Load up the whole crew.

The Soundtrack? Totally 80s.

Once the sun starts to set, live music kicks in with The 1985, a full-blown 80s tribute experience with lights, costumes, and video — basically your middle school dance, but with better snacks. Whistle Pigs opens things up with their own mix of rock, jazz, and R&B to get the night going.

Why It’s Worth the Ticket

Every dollar raised goes straight to supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County, helping give local kids a safe, fun place to grow after school and during breaks. So yes, you’re buying yourself a fun night out — but you’re also investing right back into your own community. That’s the kind of Saturday plan that actually feels good the next morning.

Tickets are on sale now — and with all-inclusive pricing, you don’t have to worry about surprise costs once you’re there.

💬 Tell Us:

Are you Team Grill Master or Team Dance Floor this year? Drop a comment on our Facebook or Instagram and let us know which local burger squad you’re rooting for on August 8th!