Skip to content

Bacon Bash

2026 Lamar Bacon Bash Billboard
Day
Hour
Minute
Second

Calling All Bacon Lovers!

Join us for the ultimate Bacon Bash fall festival, where your love for all things bacon comes to life! Dive into a mouthwatering spread featuring creamy bacon-infused mac & cheese, pulled pork sandwiches, savory pork belly bites, and even indulgent maple bacon donuts. There’s a delicious delight for everyone! Get ready for an array of exciting bacon-themed activities, including eating contests and fun for the kids. And that's not all—Bacon Bash will have live music throughout the day! Enjoy performances from a lineup of talented artists across genres, lineup dropping soon. Dance away while savoring every bite of bacon bliss. And what pairs perfectly with bacon? Beer, of course! We’ll have a fantastic selection of local craft and domestic brews to complement your feast along with delicious mocktails for our NA friends. Come hungry, come thirsty, and prepare for an unforgettable day at the best bacon festival this side of the St. Croix!

Festival Hours:

Friday, September 18, 2026 from 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Saturday, September 19, 2026 from 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

 

Downtown Car Cruze, Bloody Mary Sample Crawl, and Sip, Stroll & Shop:

Sunday, September 20, 2026 from 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Festival Features

Bacon Bash Brochure

Check out the Official Bacon Bash Brochure, brought to you in partnership with O'Rourke Media Group! Keep scrolling to find the Official Festival Grounds Schedule of Events on our website below.

2026 Brochure Available Here!
Car Cruze for website

Downtown Car Cruze

Join us for a spectacular show! The Downtown Car Cruze is a can't-miss part of the Bacon Bash weekend. Main Street will be lined with a fantastic display of classic cars, hot rods, and custom vehicles for you to admire. Stroll down Main Street, get an up-close look at some incredible rides, and talk with the owners. It’s a feast for the eyes and the perfect way to end the festival fun. Bring your favorite ride, friends, and family to enjoy a great afternoon full of cars, music, food, beverage, and fun shops all in historic downtown River Falls!

No Registration - Free!

IMG_5708

Family Fun & Activities

Bacon Bash isn't just for foodies—it's for the whole family! We offer a variety of entertaining, pig-themed activities and contests for all ages. From lively eating competitions and kid's tent to our unique pig-themed events, there's always something to see or do. Bring the kids and get ready for a day of laughter, fun, and memorable moments.

Thank you to the 2026 Kid's Activities Sponsor, River Falls FFA & FFA Alumni!

2025 Vendor Bacon winner

Food Vendors

Prepare your taste buds for a bacon-fueled adventure! Our festival is home to a wide array of food vendors and trucks, each serving up creative, mouth-watering dishes that feature bacon in every way you can imagine. Food vendors will be open at the festival grounds during open festival hours Friday and Saturday.

Say hello to our Official 2026 Food Vendors:

Applecart Concessions

Benny's Bigfoot BBQ

Holy Donuts

K & K Poppin' Stop

Lemonade Island

Lucky 8's Grill

Mariachi Loco

Papa Murphy's Pizza

Savory Eats

Two Fat Guys Smoking Food Truck

River Falls Days Parade

Bacon Bash Vendor Fair

Beyond the delicious food, Bacon Bash is the perfect place to shop! The Vendor Fair features a wide variety of local artists, crafters, service providers, and merchants. Browse unique products, from handmade gifts and apparel to specialty sauces and home décor. It's the perfect opportunity to find something special, support local businesses, and take home a souvenir to remember your bacon-filled weekend.

Event Date/Time:

Saturday, September 19, 2026, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Sip, Stroll & Shop

Bloody Mary Sample & Sidewalk Sales Event

 

Sample amazing Bloody Marys at the participating bars, Shop at retail stores and Stroll along to see the cool car cruze!

Support local, have fun, & vote on your favorite Bloody for a chance to win a set of tickets to River Falls Bluegrass Festival tickets in April of 2027.

 

2026 Participating Bloody Mary Sample Locations:

Emma's Bar

Johnnie's Bar

Junior's Restaurant & Tap House

Mel's Midtowner Sports Bar & Patio

Nutty Squirrel Sports Saloon

Streeter's Bar & Grill

Swinging Bridge Brewing Company

Tarnation Tavern

The Garage Bikes + Brews

 

2026 Participating Sidewalk Sale Locations:

Briss Boutique

Fox Den Books

Kindred A Vintage Collective

The Garage Bikes + Brews

2026 Bloody Mary Sample Map

A Pork-tacular Weekend in River Falls

2026 Bacon Bash Community Event Calendar
Medallion Hunt Winner

Golden Pig: Medallion Hunt

There will be a total of six clues leading you to the medallion. Clues will be posted on Friday, September 18th at 5:00 PM  and 7:00 PM and Saturday, September 19th at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and 5:00 PM, or until the medallion is found. Clues will only be posted in the lower entryway of City Hall. No online clues in 2026.

Medallion Hunt Winner: To claim your prize, follow the directions and contact information listed on the medallion. The winner must be 18 years of age or older to claim the prize. Younger hunters are welcome to help in the search with adult supervision. The winner will be recognized on the Bacon Bash social media and marketing materials.

Important Rules & Notes: Please read all rules and guidelines before you begin the hunt.

  • The medallion is hidden on public property within the city of River Falls. It is hidden in an area accessible to the public and is NOT on any private property or inside a residence. Participants should research public land prior to hunting to ensure they are respecting private properties and residences.
  • NO digging or disassembling is required to find the medallion. This includes light fixtures, park equipment, or waste disposal bins.
  • The interior of buildings and schools are considered private property and should not be searched.
  • Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau employees and their immediate families are not eligible to participate. The prize sponsor's owners/employees are not eligible to participate.
  • Bacon Bash assumes no responsibility for accidents or injuries sustained by participants. We urge all hunters to use reasonable safety precautions, demonstrate good sportsmanship, and follow all rules.
  • Bacon Bash reserves the right to discontinue the hunt at any time.
SFB Beer Garden

Beer Garden

Head over to the Beer Garden during open festival grounds hours to quench your thirst. Last call will be 30 minutes before the festival grounds close, nightly. Nonalcoholic and alcoholic options available.

Local Favorites from The Garage Bikes + Brews, Swinging Bridge Brewing Company, and Rush River Brewing Co. will be on tap!

Thank you to the 2026 Beer Garden Sponsor, Ptacek's Family Market, River Falls!

Bacon Central

The Menu

Whether you want a quick taste or a serious feast, Bacon Central has you covered with incredible specialty bacon options:

  • Bacon Flight: $6 — Includes one slice each of all 4 signature flavors, perfect for sampling!

  • Boat of Bacon: $20 — A hearty, loaded portion of your favorite flavors to share (or keep to yourself).

The Flavor Lineup

  • Sweet and Smoky – The classic, mouthwatering favorite with a rich, caramelized finish.

  • Honey Habanero – A sweet, sticky start with a bold, fiery kick at the end.

  • 1788 Black Pepper – A savory, robust cut packed with cracked black pepper goodness.

  • Parmesan Garlic – Savory, herbaceous, and loaded with rich, cheesy depth.

Honoring a Legacy: Remembering Jake Wagner

This year, Bacon Central carries a deeply meaningful and emotional significance for our entire community. As we fire up the griddles and gather together, we are pausing to honor the memory of the late Jake Wagner—co-owner of South Ridge Ranch Bacon and the vibrant force who helped spearhead Bacon Central from the ground up.

Known widely around the region as "Bacon Jake" or "the bacon guy," Jake was much more than a master of smoked meats; he was a pillar of energy, creativity, and boundless heart in River Falls. Alongside his family, Jake poured his passion into building South Ridge Ranch Bacon, and shaping Bacon Central into the beloved festival tradition it is today. Whether he was greeting festival-goers with a booming smile, lending his unforgettable voice to local sports, or working tirelessly behind the scenes to make fundraisers an unforgettable experience, Jake made everyone feel like a best friend.

While Bacon Central will look and feel a little different this year without him, Jake’s spirit, warmth, and dedication remain woven into every slice and every corner of the event. As we come together to celebrate community, good food, and great company, we invite you to join us in remembering Jake, celebrating his incredible legacy, and raising a toast to "the bacon guy" who gave our festival so much of his heart.

2026 Main Stage Lineup

Main Stage Friday Line Up:
2026 Bacon Bash Band Event Covers

Debbie Briggs Americana

Friday, September 18, 2026

5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

2026 Bacon Bash Band Event Covers (1)

Javier Trejo

Friday, September 18, 2026

8:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Main Stage Saturday Line Up:
2026 Bacon Bash Band Event Covers (2)

Side Two

Saturday, September 19, 2026

11:30 AM - 2:00 PM

2026 Bacon Bash Band Event Covers (3)

Grateful Gals

Saturday, September 19, 2026

3:00 PM - 5:30 PM

2026 Bacon Bash Band Event Covers (4)

The Allman Brothers Tribute: Featuring the Tommy Bentz Band with Chris Silver

Saturday, September 19, 2026

6:30 PM - 10:00 PM

Official Schedule of Events

Friday, September 18, 2026

TimeActivityLocation
5:00 PM - 10:00 PMFestival Hours – Beer Garden, Food Vendors, & More!Heritage Park
5:00 PM - 10:00 PMBacon Central
Presented by South Ridge Ranch Bacon		Heritage Park
5:00 PM - 8:00 PMKid's Activities – Face Painting, Bling Bar, Bubble Braids & More!City Hall Plaza
5:00 PM - (TBD end)Pony Rides with "Down on the Farm"City Hall Plaza
5:00 PM - 7:00 PMLive Music – Debbie Briggs AmericanaMain Stage
8:00 PM - 10:00 PMLive Music – Javier Trejo BandMain Stage

Saturday, September 19, 2026

TimeActivityLocation
Until FoundBacon Bash Medallion HuntRiver Falls, WI
11:00 AM - 6:00 PMSizzling Bacon Showdown Award Voting
Vote for your favorite bacon inspired dish, and we will announce the people's choice winner!		Online QR Code
11:00 AM - 10:00 PMFestival Hours – Beer Garden, Food Vendors, & More!Heritage Park
11:00 AM - 9:00 PMBacon Central
Presented by South Ridge Ranch Bacon		Heritage Park
11:00 AM - 4:00 PMThe Great Pig Disguise
Presented by WonderWorks Theatre		City Hall Plaza
11:00 AM - 4:00 PMKid's Activities – Knockerball
Presented by Knockerball St. Paul		City Hall Plaza
11:00 AM - 4:00 PMKid's Activities – Face Painting, Bling Bar, Bubble Braids & More!City Hall Plaza
11:00 AM - 4:00 PMKid's Activities – Play-Based Fun!
Presented by Speech Remedies		City Hall Plaza
11:00 AM - 6:00 PMKid's Activities – Corn Box, Coloring, Photo Opportunities, & More!
Presented by River Falls FFA & FFA Alumni		Kid's Activities Tent
11:00 AM - 4:00 PMBacon Bash Vendor Fair – Meet River FallsMaple Street Bridge Deck
11:00 AM - 2:00 PMBacon Bash Big Rigs
Presented by Total Excavating		Maple Street Bridge Deck
11:00 AM - 2:00 PMCaptain Black Jack and Ruby ClownsKid's Activities Tent
11:00 AM - 2:00 PMCaricatures with DignityKid's Activities Tent
11:00 AMBacon Bash Welcome & Pig Pardon with Mayor PageFrying Pan Stage
11:30 AMWhen Pigs Fly: The Game from the Sky!
Presented by Steiner Plumbing & Electric		Maple Street Plaza
11:30 AM - 2:00 PMLive Music – Side TwoMain Stage
12:00 PMTrivia & FFA Game Show
Presented by River Falls FFA & FFA Alumni		Frying Pan Stage
12:30 PMPig Calling Contest
Presented by River Falls FFA & FFA Alumni		Frying Pan Stage
1:00 PMPiggies on the Kinni – Launch in Your Pig for a Chance to Win!
Presented by River Falls FFA & FFA Alumni		Maple Street Bridge Deck
1:30 PMBacon Comedy Show
Presented by River Falls FFA & FFA Alumni		Frying Pan Stage
2:00 PMBacon Bash BMX Stunt ShowLower Level Parking Lot
2:30 PMBacon Eating Contest – Youth Division
Presented by South Ridge Ranch Bacon		Frying Pan Stage
3:00 PMPiggies on the Kinni – Launch in Your Pig for a Chance to Win!
Presented by River Falls FFA & FFA Alumni		Maple Street Bridge Deck
3:00 PM - 5:30 PMLive Music – Grateful GalsMain Stage
3:30 PMBacon Eating Contest – Adult DivisionFrying Pan Stage
4:00 PMThe Thirty-Three Little Pigs – A Theatre Performance
Presented by WonderWorks Theatre		Frying Pan Stage
5:00 PMWhen Pigs Fly: The Game from the Sky!
Presented by Steiner Plumbing & Electric		Maple Street Plaza
5:30 PMBacon Bash BMX Stunt ShowLower Level Parking Lot
6:00 PMSizzling Bacon Showdown Award Voting Closes
Vote for your favorite bacon inspired dish, and we will announce the people's choice winner!		Online QR Code
6:00 PMPiggies on the Kinni – Launch in Your Pig for a Chance to Win!
Presented by River Falls FFA & FFA Alumni		Maple Street Bridge Deck
6:30 PM - 10:00 PMLive Music – Allman Brothers Tribute feat. The Tommy Bentz Band with Chris SilverMain Stage
7:00 PMSizzling Bacon Showdown Award
Vote for your favorite bacon inspired dish, and we will announce the people's choice winner!		Main Stage

 

Sunday, September 20, 2026

TimeActivityLocation
11:00 AM - 3:00 PMBloody Mary Sample CrawlMain Street
11:00 AM - 3:00 PMSip, Stroll & ShopMain Street
11:00 AM - 3:00 PMDowntown Car CruiseMain Street

Thank You Sponsors!

Applications & Sign Ups

Booth Fair

Saturday, September 19 | 11:00 am – 2:00 pm | Maple Street

Looking to connect with the community and showcase your products or services? We're hosting a vibrant vendor fair at River Falls Days and invite you to participate! It's the perfect opportunity to engage with local customers in River Falls.

Submission Deadline:
August 21, 2026

Now Accepting Applications!

Registration is required.

Complete the Application Here

Volunteer

Join our amazing team of volunteers and get a front-row seat to all the fun, excitement, and celebration happening in our community!


As a volunteer, you'll have the chance to meet new people, build meaningful connections, and play a key role in bringing our events to life. We’re so grateful for your time and energy—and we can’t wait to welcome you to the team!

Volunteer
Scroll To Top