RV Rentals at Des Moines Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival

ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT

As you explore the festival, there will be no shortage of bacon-inspired food and beverage samples. However, the real treat comes from the many food vendors offering full-sized servings. Don't miss out on tasting bacon creations from local favorites like Jethro's BBQ and The Bacon Board, each serving up their own delicious spin on the beloved dish. For something to wash it all down, check out the beverage stands offering a selection of drinks, including craft beer and bacon-infused cocktails. For those with a competitive streak, the bacon-eating contest is the ultimate challenge to showcase your bacon-loving abilities. Or, you can sign up for the chance to be crowned this year's Bacon Queen, where your bacon knowledge and enthusiasm could win you the recognition you deserve. Live music and entertainment are also in abundance throughout the festival, providing the perfect soundtrack to your bacon-filled adventure. Many vendors also offer freebies, prize drawings, and interactive activities, so be sure to explore every corner of the festival grounds to take in all the fun.

ON-SITE AMENITIES

Public restrooms are available in several locations throughout the Agricultural Building, where the festival is held. ATMs are also available, although most vendors do accept credit cards.

LOCATION

Iowa State Fairgrounds Agricultural Building 3000 East Grand Avenue Des Moines, IA 50317 The fairgrounds are easily accessible from major roads and highways. Whether you're traveling by car, RV, or public transportation, getting to the festival is simple and hassle-free.

LINEUP

This year's musical headliners, Yachty by Nature, The Sheet, and The Unfortunate Sons, will be rocking the stage.

RVING AT THE EVENT

The Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival is held at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, which features a campground. The Des Moines facility has 2,300 sites with water and electricity and 734 with full hookups. Other amenities include bathhouses with hot showers and multiple onsite dump stations. The non-fair-time camping rate is $32 per night. Tips for camping at the fairgrounds: • No open fires are permitted. However, you can use an above-ground grill to prepare meals. • The weather in Des Moines in May ranges from the mid-60s to mid-80s during the day, while evenings can get cooler, dropping to the low 50s. Be sure to pack layers, including a light jacket or sweater, for hanging out at your campsite in the evenings. • If you don't own an RV, you can rent one in Des Moines and mingle with other bacon lovers at the campground. You will also have the freedom to explore all that the area has to offer after enjoying the festival.

WHERE TO STAY

If you are not interested in RV camping, there are several hotels nearby: • Residence Inn by Marriott Des Moines Downtown: This modern hotel offers spacious suites with full kitchens, perfect for extended stays. It's located near downtown Des Moines, providing easy access to local restaurants, shops, and attractions. • Hampton Inn Des Moines Downtown: Offering comfortable rooms and complimentary breakfast, this hotel is just a short distance from the Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival and other downtown Des Moines hotspots. • Holiday Inn Express Des Moines Downtown: With its convenient location near the festival and local attractions, this hotel offers a great blend of comfort and convenience, including an indoor pool and a fitness center.

HOW TO GET THERE

From the north: Take I-35 to I-235 to Exit 10A. Head east on East University Avenue for about four miles. The fairgrounds are located on your right. From the south: Take I-35 to IA 5/US 65. Take Exit 79 for University Avenue. Travel west for about four miles. The fairgrounds are on the left. From the east: Take I-80 to Exit 141 for the Highway 65 Bypass. Travel south on Highway 65 to Exit 79. Head west on East University Avenue for about three miles. The fairgrounds are on the left. From the west: Take I-235 to Exit 10A. Head east on East University Avenue. Travel about four miles. The fairgrounds are on the right. The nearest major airport is Des Moines International Airport (DSM), about 8 miles southwest of the Iowa State Fairgrounds. You can take a rental car, taxi, or rideshare service from the airport to reach the festival in about 20 minutes.

PARKING

Parking for the Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival is both abundant and free.

TICKETS & PRICING

General Admission: $29 Early Admission: $49 Table Reservation: $600 Tickets are available through the event's ticket page. Early admission tickets give you access to the festival an hour early and include some added freebies. Table reservations include 10 tickets, early access, loads of freebies, and a specially reserved table for your group.

WRAP UP

The Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival is a must-visit event for bacon lovers, offering a fun mix of food, entertainment, and unique experiences. Whether you're there to savor delicious bacon dishes, compete in the eating contest, or enjoy live music, there's something for everyone. Check out the event's official Facebook page for updates.

Please note, this is not the official source of the event information. While we try to be as comprehensive as possible, some details may have changed since the time this article was written. Please confirm final details with the official event page.

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