LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. - GeorgiaChron -- After raising a record-breaking $110k to benefit children in need in 2025, event organizers aim to hike the "bar" a little higher on a beloved barbecue competition this year. When amateur, junior, and professional BBQ contestants fire up their smokers in the shade of Metro Atlanta's Coolray Field, thousands of guests are expected to attend the 11^th Annual Sip & Swine BBQ Festival on Friday, March 6, and Saturday, March 7, 2026. As in years past, 100% of the proceeds from this two-day Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS)-sanctioned event will benefit Home of Hope at Gwinnett Children's Shelter. Between its inception and last year's event, the Sip & Swine BBQ Festival had raised over $1M for the local charity devoted to the well-being of homeless children and their young mothers. And, once again, the dedicated team at Hendrick Automotive Group will serve as the event's Grand Champion Sponsor. As the heavenly aroma of smoked BBQ fills the air, so will the sounds from a rockin' lineup of live bands. There will also be a large assortment of food and beverage vendors on hand, a craft vendor village to explore, and a family-friendly atmosphere to enjoy with FREE PARKING and FREE ADMISSION.

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"While 2026 marks our 11^th year and we've gained the approval of the esteemed Kansas City Barbecue Society, as crazy as it sounds, local folks are still learning about our event," said Chrissy Keheley, Home of Hope Board Member, co-organizer of the Sip & Swine BBQ Festival, and Associate Vice President of Lawrenceville-based InsuranceHub Leavitt Agency. "That's the price of being in one of the hottest cities in the Southeast – there are always fun happenings throughout the city from one weekend to the next. But word continues to spread about Sip & Swine, and we always get rave reviews from attendees. This year, we have a competition team joining us all the way from the Republic of Estonia!"

Proceeds from competition fees, vendor fees, raffle ticket sales, and the purchase of People's Choice Taster Kits support Home of Hope's mission to strengthen children, youth, and families in crisis by providing a broad array of counseling and supportive services in a safe and nurturing environment. People's Choice Taster Kits can be purchased for just $15 each in the People's Choice Tent on Saturday, March 7, while supplies last.

Coolray Field is located at 2500 Buford Drive in Lawrenceville. For additional information about the event, please visit www.sipandswine.com. To learn more about Home of Hope at Gwinnett Children's Shelter or make a direct donation online, please visit www.homeofhopegcs.org.