Hogs for the Cause XV, the barbecue competition and music fest that benefited Children’s Hospital New Orleans, was held on March 31 and April 1 at UNO Lakefront Arena Festival Grounds. The two-day event saw a record-breaking crowd, with 90 teams competing for the title of Grand Champion in various BBQ categories.

The event successfully raised $3.6 million, breaking the previous year’s fundraising record. Hogs for the Cause CEO & Co-Founder Becker Hall thanked the teams, attendees, volunteers, sponsors, and families for their support.

The BBQ competitors were judged in categories such as Whole Hog, Ribs, Pork Butt/Shoulder, and Porkpourri (anything pork). The event also had Best Sauce, Best Side, Best Bacon, Best Booth, Best Social Media, and Fundraising Champion awards.

Hogs for the Cause also inducted several individuals into its Hog of Fame, including Lee LaFleur, Sarena Teng, Sam Panice, Mike Finney, David Flexer, and Libby Fein.

The Children’s Hospital New Orleans Grand Champion title went to Hog Addiction, while Squeal Team Six, Pork Funk All Stars, Trailer Pork Boys, and Hog Addiction won in their respective categories. The event’s Fan Favorite was Mr. Pigglesworth, while Fleur De Que was declared Fundraising Champion.

Rene Louapre, COO & Co-Founder of Hogs for the Cause, praised the teams for their efforts and the amount of good that could be done with the funds raised. The event’s success proves that the fundraising efforts have no end in sight and will continue to provide for many families.