About Beer & Bacon Festival
More than a festival—a movement that's changing lives across Mississippi.
THE STORY
The Gulf Coast Beer & Bacon Festival started as a simple idea: bring people together over great food and drinks while supporting an incredible cause. What began as a single-day event has grown into the Gulf Coast's premier fundraising festival.
2023: First Beer & Bacon Fest
2024: Expanded programming and vendors
2025: Raised $45,000 for Mississippi Heroes
2026: Two-day festival with expanded family programming
THE CAUSE: MISSISSIPPI HEROES
The Need:
- 470,000+ family caregivers in Mississippi
- Many lack resources for basic accessibility needs
- Veterans and first responders often need support
Our Solution:
- Build wheelchair ramps for families in need
- Celebrate and recognize caregivers
- Provide resources and community support
- Growing into home repairs and first responder grants
The Impact:
- 50+ ramps built since 2023
- $45,000 raised in 2025
- Hundreds of caregivers recognized and supported
MEET KATHERINE SUTTON
Festival founder Katherine Sutton is more than an event planner—she's a Mississippi REALTOR®, nonprofit founder, and community advocate who believes in creating access for everyone.
When she's not helping families find their perfect Gulf Coast home, Katherine is building wheelchair ramps, planning community events, and making sure caregivers get the recognition they deserve.
"This festival represents everything I love about our community: great food, amazing people, and hearts that show up for each other."
Festival Growth:
- 1,000+ attendees in 2025
- 1,500+ projected for 2026
- 50+ vendors both years
- 500,000+ social media impressions
Community Impact:
- $45,000 raised in 2025
- $100,000 goal for 2026
- 50+ wheelchair ramps built
- 100+ caregivers celebrated
