Asheville, NC — Tourists Signature Events, the special events arm of the Asheville Tourists
baseball team, has announced the inaugural Carolina EGGfest, presented by Madden & Young’s Ace Hardwares and benefiting Food Connection, at HomeTrust Park on Saturday,
September 19, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will be all-you-can-eat sampling, from local Grill Teams, competing in various categories on the legendary Big Green Egg Grill.
“We’re excited to see HomeTrust Park continue to serve the community even after the final pitch of the season on September 6,” said Brian DeWine, Owner and President. “This ballpark was built to bring people together, and by partnering with Madden’s Ace Hardware and Young’s Ace Hardware, we’re able to extend that experience, and do so in a meaningful way. It’s a great opportunity to reimagine the space, keep the energy of the ballpark alive year-round, and raise awareness for a cause that affects those right here in Asheville.” Gates will open at 11a.m. for General Admission Tasters, with early entry available at 10 a.m. for VIP Tasters. VIP Tasters will also receive a complimentary whiskey pour, a beer and BBQ pairing experience, access to the Champion Credit Union Club, an indoor climate-controlled venue with a full-liquor cash bar, and VIP credential. Early Bird pricing will be offered for both general admission Tasters ($45.00) and VIP Tasters ($85.00) through Labor Day weekend (now through September 7th). On September 8th, standard pricing will increase to $60.00 and $100.00, respectively.
Those interested in competing in either the Professional or Amateur divisions can sign up for a $100 refundable deposit and be provided with a tent, tables, charcoal, serving materials, and a large Big Green Egg grill with Nest and ConvEGGtor for the duration of the competition. Grill Teams must provide their own ingredients to compete in the poultry, beef, pork, and anything but categories. The Personality Pitmaster title will be awarded to the Grill Team with the best tent setup, décor, attire, and all-around showmanship. All voting will be people’s choice and only available on-site.
Awards will be presented at 2:30 p.m., with the event concluding at 3 p.m.
The festival offers the exclusive opportunity to pre-purchase the lightly used Big Green Egg grills supplied to Grill Teams at a discounted price, provided by Madden & Young’s Ace Hardwares. The Demo Egg package add-on, available at checkout, includes a large lightly used Big Green Egg, Nest and ConvEGGtor, as well as a 17.6 lb bag of Big Green Egg Charcoal, Fire Starters, Ash Tool, and Grid Gripper and retails at $1,625.93 + tax, but is available to Carolina EGGfest ticket holders and Grill Team participants for just $1,199.00 + tax. That’s over $400.00 in savings.
To purchase tickets or get more information, please call the Asheville Tourists Box Office (828) 258-0428 or visit us online at www.touristssignatureevents.com/eggfest.
Madden’s Ace Hardware is a locally owned and operated Asheville business dedicated to serving the community with expert advice, quality products, and exceptional customer service. As part of the Ace Hardware family, Madden’s combines the resources of a nationally recognized brand with the personal touch of a local business, offering hardware, home improvement supplies, paint, outdoor equipment, and project expertise for
homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, contractors, and neighbors alike. Committed to strengthening the community it serves, Madden’s Ace Hardware proudly supports local
events and organizations and operates locations on Haywood Road and Fairview Road in Asheville. Young’s Ace Hardware is a trusted local resource committed to serving its community with quality products, knowledgeable service, and expert advice. As part of the Ace Hardware family, Young’s combines the resources of a nationally recognized brand with the personal touch of a locally operated business, helping homeowners, contractors, and neighbors tackle projects of all sizes. From hardware essentials and home improvement
supplies to outdoor living products, paint, and project expertise, Young’s Ace Hardware is dedicated to being a helpful partner for every customer. With locations in Enka-Candler, North Asheville, South Asheville, Weaverville, and Mills River, Young’s Ace Hardware continues to support and strengthen the communities it serves through exceptional service and local involvement.
Food Connection is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing hunger, strengthening communities, and creating a more sustainable food system by connecting surplus food with neighbors in need. Through partnerships with local restaurants, grocery stores, farms, community organizations, and volunteers, Food Connection helps reduce food waste while providing nutritious food and essential resources to individuals and families throughout Asheville and the surrounding areas. Through its community-driven programs, Food Connection brings people together to build a healthier, more connected community.