Meraki Hospitality Group x Indiana Grown Presents Whole Hog Invitational
About this Event
Whole Hog Invitational | The Inaugural Table
Presented by Meraki Hospitality Group and Indiana Grown
Friday, October 9, 2026
5pm–10pm
Bulldog Park | Crown Point, Indiana
Crafted by Chefs. Rooted in the Land.
Join us for the inaugural Whole Hog Invitational, an open-air culinary competition celebrating Indiana agriculture, regional chefs, and the relationships that connect our farms, restaurants, and communities.
Five regional chefs will compete by creating an original dish featuring heritage pork from Howe Farms alongside seasonal ingredients sourced from Indiana producers. Guests will sample every competition dish before casting their vote to crown the inaugural Whole Hog Champion.
Beyond the competition, guests will enjoy an evening filled with local food, live music, the Indiana Grown Farmers' Market, family-friendly activities, and opportunities to meet the chefs, farmers, and producers helping shape Indiana's food story.
A portion of event proceeds will benefit NWI No Child Hungry, helping provide sustainable solutions for children facing food insecurity throughout Northwest Indiana.
Competing Chefs
Nick Idarraga
Ramen District | Crown Point, Indiana
Matt Stewart
Tavern on Main | Crown Point, Indiana
Blake Murray
Burn 'Em Brewing | Michigan City, Indiana
Jay Ruff
Lincoln & Wicker | Schererville, Indiana
Caesar Cicala
Bon Vie | Hobart, Indiana
What Your Ticket Includes
Every admission includes:
- Five chef competition tastings
- Guest voting to crown the inaugural Whole Hog Champion
- Access to the Indiana Grown Farmers' Market
- Live music throughout the evening
- Family-friendly activities
- Opportunities to meet local chefs, farmers, and producers
Additional food and beverage offerings will be available for purchase from Meraki Mobile throughout the event.
Featured Experiences
Five Chef Competition Tastings
Five of the region's chefs will each create an original dish featuring heritage pork from Howe Farms alongside seasonal ingredients sourced from Indiana producers.
Vote for the Champion
After sampling every competition dish, guests will cast their vote to determine the inaugural Whole Hog Champion.
The winning chef will receive the custom championship belt and return in 2027 to defend the title.
Indiana Grown Farmers' Market
Meet and shop directly from Indiana farmers, growers, producers, artisans, and makers while learning more about the products that are grown, raised, harvested, and made throughout our state.
Live Music & Entertainment
Enjoy live music, local entertainment, and the vibrant atmosphere of Bulldog Park throughout the evening.
Meraki Mobile
Additional food and beverage offerings will be available throughout the event.
Family-Friendly Activities
Bring the whole family for an evening filled with activities designed for guests of all ages.
Ticket Options
General Admission — $49
Available through October 5
Includes:
- Event admission
- Five chef competition tastings
- Guest voting
- Indiana Grown Farmers' Market
- Live music & entertainment
- Family-friendly activities
- Official Whole Hog Invitational swag bag
Kids Ages 4–12 — $25
Available through October 5
Includes:
- Event admission
- Five chef competition tastings
- Guest voting
- Indiana Grown Farmers' Market
- Live music & entertainment
- Family-friendly activities
Kids Ages 3 & Under — FREE
A complimentary ticket is required for each child ages 3 and under.
VIP Whole Hog Experience — $99
Presented by Centier Bank
Limited Ticket Availability | 21+
Includes everything in General Admission, plus:
- Early event entry at 4pm
- Priority tasting experience
- Exclusive Whole-Hog Experience with Steve Howe of Howe Farms and Chef Michael Lanzorette
- Commemorative VIP gift
- Premium hospitality experience
Late Admission - $69
Available at the gate on October 9 while tickets remain.
Includes:
- Event admission
- Five chef competition tastings
- Guest voting
- Indiana Grown Farmers' Market
- Live music & entertainment
- Family-friendly activities
Event Partners
Presented by Indiana Grown
Indiana Grown, an initiative of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, serves as Presenting Partner for the Whole Hog Invitational, helping connect guests with the farmers, producers, artisans, and businesses that grow, raise, harvest, and make products across Indiana.
The Farm Behind the Table
Howe Farms is the farm behind this year's competition, providing the heritage pork that serves as the foundation of the culinary competition while helping connect guests with the people and practices behind Indiana agriculture. Together with Steve Howe, we're celebrating the relationships between farmers, chefs, and the communities they nourish.
Building Community Through Hospitality
Centier Bank joins Whole Hog Invitational as Stewardship Partner, supporting the event's commitment to hospitality, community engagement, and the shared experiences that bring people together around the table.
Founding Creative Partner
Katiko Creative serves as the Founding Creative Partner of Whole Hog Invitational, developing the visual identity that brings the inaugural event to life. Their creative partnership has established a brand designed to grow alongside the event and help build its recognition for years to come.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00 to USD 107.32
