Frequently Asked Questions

General Event Information

What is Bacon Bash?

Bacon Bash is the signature annual fundraising event hosted by the Rotary Club of Warwick at City Center Newport News. It’s Hampton Roads’ premier bacon festival featuring bacon-themed dishes from top Virginia Peninsula restaurants, live entertainment, craft beverages, and a friendly competition for the “People’s Choice Award.” All proceeds support local and international charitable causes.

When is Bacon Bash 2026?

Date: Thursday, May 21, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM (VIP early entry at 5:30 PM)
Location: Virginia Living Museum, Newport News, VA

View full event details →

Where is Bacon Bash held?

Bacon Bash 2026 will be held at the Virginia Living Museum in Newport News, Virginia.

Address:
Virginia Living Museum
524 J Clyde Morris Blvd
Newport News, VA 23601

The venue features indoor and outdoor spaces perfect for enjoying bacon tastings, live music, and mingling with fellow bacon enthusiasts.

Is this event happening every year?

Yes! Bacon Bash is our signature annual event. Since 2014, we’ve hosted this beloved community gathering each spring. Check our events page for the latest information about upcoming dates.

Tickets & Pricing

How much are Bacon Bash tickets?

Advance Tickets: $65
At the Door: $75
VIP Tickets: $75 (includes early entry at 5:30 PM)

We strongly recommend purchasing tickets in advance as the event typically sells out. Advance tickets offer the best value and guarantee your spot at this popular event.

Where can I buy tickets?

Tickets are available online through our Eventbrite page. Look for the “Get Tickets” button on our homepage or visit the specific event page for direct ticket links.

What’s included with my ticket?

Your ticket includes:

  • Unlimited bacon tastings from 20+ local restaurants and food trucks
  • Beverage tastings including craft beer, cider, wine, and signature bourbon cocktails
  • Live entertainment throughout the event
  • Voting privileges for the People’s Choice Award
  • Entry to raffles and silent auction (separate purchase/donation)
  • A commemorative event glass (while supplies last)

Are tickets refundable?

Ticket sales support charitable giving, so refunds are generally not available. However, tickets can often be transferred to another person. Contact us at admin@baconbash.org for special circumstances.

Can I purchase tickets at the door?

Yes, but only if the event hasn’t sold out. Door tickets are $75 (vs. $65 advance). We highly recommend buying in advance to secure your spot and save money.

Age Restrictions & Event Rules

Is Bacon Bash family-friendly?

No, this is a 21+ event. All attendees must be at least 21 years old and will need to show valid ID at entry. This age restriction allows us to feature craft beers, wines, and bourbon cocktails as part of the experience.

Why is it 21 and over only?

Bacon Bash features alcohol tastings as a key component of the event, including craft beer, cider, wine, and bourbon cocktails. To maintain a safe environment and comply with Virginia ABC regulations, we require all attendees to be 21+.

Do I need to bring my ID?

Yes, absolutely. Valid photo ID is required for entry. Acceptable forms include:

  • Driver’s license
  • State ID card
  • Passport
  • Military ID

No ID, no entry - no exceptions.

Food & Beverages

What kind of bacon dishes will be served?

You’ll enjoy incredible variety! Past offerings have included:

  • Savory: Bourbon BBQ pork belly, bacon-wrapped scallops, bacon burger sliders, pork belly burnt ends
  • Creative: Pork belly fried rice, bacon-wrapped smokies with spicy jam
  • Sweet: Maple bacon donuts and fritters
  • Cocktails: Bacon bourbon martinis, smoked old fashioneds

Each participating restaurant brings their signature bacon creation, competing for awards in multiple categories.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options?

This is a bacon-focused event, so vegetarian/vegan options are extremely limited. The event celebrates bacon in all its forms. If you have dietary restrictions, please contact us in advance.

Are there gluten-free options?

Many restaurants offer gluten-free (GF) bacon dishes. Look for “GF” markers at tasting stations. However, cross-contamination may occur, so those with celiac disease should exercise caution.

What beverages are included?

Your ticket includes tastings of:

  • Virginia craft beers and ciders
  • Wine selections (red and white)
  • Signature bourbon cocktails
  • Non-alcoholic beverages (soda, water)

Restaurants also compete in a cocktail competition with creative bacon-inspired drinks.

Can I get full-size drinks?

Tastings are included with admission. Full-size beverages may be available for purchase at the bar (cash and card accepted).

Parking & Transportation

Is parking available near the venue?

Yes! Free parking is available at the Virginia Living Museum in Newport News:

  • Virginia Living Museum parking lot
  • Nearby elementary school parking
  • Overflow lot near Riverside Hospital

A free shuttle bus runs continuously between all parking areas and the event entrance. Parking locations will be clearly marked on event day.

Should I use a rideshare service?

We strongly encourage using Uber, Lyft, or designated drivers, especially if you plan to enjoy alcoholic beverages. The Virginia Living Museum is easily accessible from across Hampton Roads and the Peninsula, and we want everyone to get home safely.

Is there handicap accessible parking?

Yes, accessible parking is available in the main Virginia Living Museum lot, closest to the entrance. Handicap placards or license plates are required.

The Competition & Voting

What is the People’s Choice Award?

All attendees vote for their favorite bacon dish and cocktail! After sampling from participating restaurants, you’ll use your ballot to select winners. It’s a fun way to engage with the culinary creativity on display.

What other awards are given?

In addition to People’s Choice, our panel of judges awards:

  • Best Presentation
  • Most Original
  • Most Oink (best use of pork/bacon)
  • Most Savory
  • Judges’ Choice Overall
  • Best Cocktail

Winners are announced at the event and featured on our website.

Can I vote multiple times?

Each ticket includes one ballot. You can vote for one bacon dish and one cocktail of your choice.

Entertainment & Activities

What entertainment is provided?

We feature live music from local bands throughout the event. Past years have included rock, country, and cover bands that keep the energy high. There’s also a silent auction with items donated by local businesses, and raffle drawings with great prizes.

Is there a 50/50 raffle?

Yes! Our 50/50 raffle is a fan favorite. Tickets are sold throughout the event, and the winner takes home half the pot while the other half supports our charitable work.

Can I dance?

Absolutely! There’s plenty of space to enjoy the music and dance. Bacon Bash is a lively, fun atmosphere.

Sponsorship & Participation

How can my restaurant participate?

We’d love to have you! Restaurants from across Hampton Roads and the Virginia Peninsula provide bacon tastings and compete for awards. Contact us at sponsor@baconbash.org or visit our restaurants page for participation details.

How can my business become a sponsor?

Sponsorship opportunities range from $250 (Bronze) to $10,000 (Presenting Sponsor). Benefits include tickets, VIP access, prominent signage, and digital recognition. Visit our sponsorship page or email sponsors@baconbash.org.

Can I volunteer at the event?

Yes! We welcome volunteers to help with setup, registration, vendor support, and breakdown. Contact admin@baconbash.org to join our volunteer team.

Can I donate items for the auction?

Absolutely! We accept donations of goods, services, gift certificates, and experiences for our silent auction. All donations are tax-deductible. Contact admin@baconbash.org to arrange your donation.

Charity & Community Impact

Where does the money go?

100% of sponsorship contributions fund charitable grants and service projects. Last year, Bacon Bash raised over $34,000. Since 2014, we’ve raised more than $262,000 for local and international causes.

Recent beneficiaries include:

  • Virginia Peninsula Foodbank
  • Scouting America & Girl Scouts
  • Boys & Girls Clubs
  • THRIVE Peninsula
  • Virginia Living Museum
  • Warwick High School Scholarships
  • Edmarc Hospice for Children
  • And many more!

Is my ticket purchase tax-deductible?

Ticket purchases are not tax-deductible as they include food, beverages, and entertainment. However, sponsorships and direct donations to the Warwick Rotary Foundation (501(c)3) are fully tax-deductible.

What is the Rotary Club of Warwick?

The Rotary Club of Warwick at City Center Newport News is a service organization dedicated to community improvement across Newport News and Hampton Roads through local projects, youth development, and international humanitarian efforts. Learn more on our About page.

Event Day Logistics

What should I wear?

Casual attire is recommended. You’ll be standing, walking between tasting stations, and potentially dancing. Comfortable shoes are a must! The event is partially outdoors, so check the weather and dress accordingly.

What time should I arrive?

General admission: Doors open at 6:00 PM
VIP ticket holders: Early entry at 5:30 PM

We recommend arriving early to beat the crowds and ensure you have time to sample all the amazing bacon creations!

Can I leave and come back?

No, re-entry is not permitted. Once you leave the event premises, your wristband becomes invalid.

Is the venue indoors or outdoors?

The Virginia Living Museum offers both indoor and outdoor spaces. We utilize both areas, weather permitting. The event continues rain or shine.

What if it rains?

The event goes on! We have ample indoor space at the Virginia Living Museum. Some outdoor activities may move inside, but the bacon tastings, entertainment, and fun continue regardless of weather.

Health & Safety

Are there COVID-19 protocols?

We follow current Virginia Department of Health guidelines. Check our website or email admin@baconbash.org closer to the event date for any specific health protocols in place.

Is smoking allowed?

Smoking (including vaping) is only permitted in designated areas away from the main event spaces and food service areas.

What if I have food allergies?

While we make every effort to accommodate guests, this is primarily a bacon/pork event with limited alternatives. Cross-contamination may occur. If you have severe allergies, please contact admin@baconbash.org before purchasing tickets.

Still Have Questions?

General Inquiries

Email: admin@baconbash.org

Sponsorship Questions

Email: sponsors@baconbash.org

Media Inquiries

Visit our Contact page for press information.

Updated: December 6, 2025