About THE Beer,Bacon & BEYOND 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 fundraising event has grown into one of the Gulf Coast's premier fundraising festivals.


2021: First Beer & Bacon Fest
2024: Expanded programming and vendors
2025: Moved locations & have installed over 70 ramps for  Veterans, Disabled & Seniors in the community
2026: Two-day festival with expanded family programming

THE CAUSE: MISSISSIPPI HEROES

The Need:

  • 470,000+ family caregivers in Mississippi
  • Many are unable to get themselves or loved ones in and out of their home safely
  • First responders need our help to ease the burden on their safety along with those unable to get out of their home.

Our Solution:

  • Build wheelchair ramps for families in need
  • Continued to celebrate and recognize caregivers
  • Provide resources and community support
  • Grow into small home repairs and 1st responder grant

The Impact:

  • 70+ ramps built since 2023
  • Over $75,000 raised in 2025 (over $200,000 since inception)
  • Hundreds of caregivers recognized and supported


MEET KATHERINE SUTTON

Festival founder Katherine Sutton is more than an event planner—she's a Mississippi REALTOR® with Weichert REALTORS Gulf Properties, the Founder & Executive Director of Mississippi Heroes, and community advocate who believes in creating access for everyone.


When she's not helping families find their perfect Gulf Coast home, Katherine is helping to build wheelchair ramps & celebrate caregivers, planning community events, and making sure caregivers get the recognition and support 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
  • 40+ food & drink vendors both years
  • 500,000+ social media impressions

Community Impact:

  • Over $75,000 raised in 2025
  • $100,000 goal for 2026
  • 70+ wheelchair ramps built
  • 100+ caregivers celebrated