BaconFest kicks off Saturday afternoon with this year’s theme of Pork Wars: The Bacon Awakens.

“We are excited to bring BaconFest to St. Joe for its second year” says James Fisher, Baconfest St. Joe coordinator. “This year we are challenging our booths, as well as the attendees to incorporate the theme into their activities.”

Participants will be able to try numerous bacon creations from appetizers, to entrees to desserts, take part or watch a bacon eating contest and various other activities.

The event will take place at the Civic Arena in downtown St. Joseph. Special P.I.G. ticket holders will get in an hour early to sample the various treats then doors open at 2 p.m. for general admission ticket holders.

The Dream Factory of Northwest Missouri will benefit from a proceeds. The Dream Factory uses donations to help grant dreams of critically and chronically ill children between the age of 3 to 18.

“Last year we sent our application in and you know I was hoping,” said Rite Hook, Dream Factory area coordinator. “This kind of helps get our name out there.”

A dream will be granted at 3 p.m.

Tickets to BaconFest can still be purchased for $25 at the door.