Sacramento’s popular Bacon Fest announces first wave of 2014 events

Look for the region’s foodies to make their third annual pork pilgrimage to the capital city next month, when the 2014 Sacramento Bacon Fest will take place Jan. 19-26. A full slate of events for the upcoming pig-out was announced this morning, promising a range of dining, cooking and even bacon cocktail extravaganzas across the city.

An opening night party will take place at Grange on Sunday, Jan. 19, where admission is free and bacon aficionados can enjoy a small-plate menu offered by the restaurant's executive chef Oliver Ridgeway and his culinary partners for the evening, Ravin Patel of Ella and Billy Ngo of Kru. The evening also offers a DJ, photo booth and raffle with prizes including admission to the popular Bacon Fest Chef’s Competition at Mulvaney’s B&L on Jan. 26. Tickets for that competition, featuring bacon dishes concocted by Adam Pechal, Patrick Mulvaney, Michael Tuohy and nine other Sactown chefs, are priced at $35 apiece with proceeds benefiting the Center For Land-Based Learning in Winters. (Tickets go on sale Monday, Dec. 30, at noon.)

Among the highlights during the rest of the week include special Bacon Fest prix-fixe dinners at Formoli’s Bistro, Magpie Café and Enotria, while the bars at Hook & Ladder and Bows & Arrows will pair small plates and local beers at events on Jan. 21 and Jan. 24 respectively. Two official Bacon Fest brunches are planned for Bacon and Butter (Jan. 25) and The Golden Bear (Jan. 26).

Festival organizers expect to announce additional events—including a Bacon Fest cocktail competition and other pop-up events around Sacramento—in the days to come. Keep an eye on the fest’s Facebook page and website for details: baconfestsac.com