Whole Hog Invitational | The Inaugural Table

Crafted by Chefs. Rooted in the Land.

Presented by Meraki Hospitality Group and Indiana Grown

October 9, 2026 | 5-10pm Bulldog Park | Crown Point, IN

Indiana Grown connects Hoosiers with the farmers, producers, artisans, and businesses that define our state's agricultural heritage. As the Indiana State Department of Agriculture's official initiative, its mission is to strengthen local communities by promoting the people and products that are grown, raised, and made right here in Indiana.

As Presenting Partner, Indiana Grown helps bring that mission to life through the Whole Hog Invitational—uniting chefs, farmers, producers, and our community around a shared table that celebrates Indiana's agricultural heritage, whole animal utilization, and the relationships that make exceptional food possible.

Presenting Partner

Supporting Partners

Stewardship Partner: Centier Bank

As Stewardship Partner of the Whole Hog Invitational, Centier Bank supports the event while reinforcing the hospitality, sustainability, and community values at its heart. As a locally owned bank with deep roots in Northwest Indiana, Centier’s partnership reflects a shared commitment to investing in the people, businesses, and experiences that strengthen the communities we call home.

About The Event

The Whole Hog Invitational brings chefs, farmers, producers, and the community together to celebrate the rich agricultural heritage of Northwest Indiana. Guests will enjoy chef-crafted tasting dishes, vote to crown the inaugural Whole Hog Champion, explore local farm vendors and artisan producers, enjoy live music, and experience family-friendly activities throughout the evening.

Rooted in local terroir and the principles of whole animal utilization, the Whole Hog Invitational honors the people who grow our food, the chefs who transform it, and the shared table that connects them all. More than a culinary competition, it's an opportunity to experience the stories, craftsmanship, and partnerships behind every plate.

Presented by Meraki Hospitality Group in partnership with Indiana Grown, the event is also committed to giving back. A portion of proceeds will benefit NWI No Child Hungry, helping provide sustainable solutions for children facing food insecurity throughout Northwest Indiana.

Whether you're here to discover new chefs, support local farms, enjoy great food with family and friends, or celebrate the future of Indiana agriculture, you'll have a front-row seat to the inaugural chapter of what will become a lasting Northwest Indiana tradition.

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The Competition

The Farm Behind the Table

Steve Howe | Howe Farms

Steve Howe is the owner of Howe Farms, a family farm dedicated to raising quality livestock while preserving the traditions and values of responsible agriculture. As the farmer behind the Whole Hog Invitational, Steve represents the connection between the land, the livestock, and the chefs who transform local ingredients into something extraordinary.

Through Howe Farms' livestock contribution and close collaboration with the event, Steve helps bring the farm-to-table story to life in a way that extends far beyond the plate. His commitment to raising livestock responsibly, caring for the land, and supporting regional agriculture reflects the values at the heart of the Whole Hog Invitational—celebrating the people who raise our food and the partnerships that strengthen our local food system.

For Steve, the Whole Hog Invitational is an opportunity to celebrate Indiana agriculture and the people who make it possible. By connecting guests with the farm behind the table, the event tells a deeper story about where our food comes from and the partnerships that strengthen our regional food community.

The Culinary Vision

Chef Michael Lanzerotte

As Culinary Director for Meraki Hospitality Group, Chef Michael Lanzerotte oversees the menus, culinary programs, and signature events that define each of our restaurants and venues. But the Whole Hog Invitational reflects something even more personal.

As a farmer and owner of Rolling Fog Farmstead in Crown Point and the founder of Home Sweet Hive, Michael believes the strongest culinary experiences begin with a deep respect for the land, the people who cultivate it, and the ingredients they produce. His passion for local agriculture, responsible sourcing, and meaningful partnerships shaped the vision for the Whole Hog Invitational—bringing chefs, farmers, producers, and our community together around one shared table.

Through his leadership, this inaugural event celebrates more than culinary craftsmanship. It highlights the relationships between agriculture and hospitality, honors the principles of whole animal utilization, and showcases the collaboration that strengthens our local food community.

Made Possible By

  • Presenting Partner

    Connecting guests with the farmers, producers, artisans, and businesses that represent Indiana agriculture.

    Visit Indiana Grown

  • Stewardship Partner

    Supporting elevated guest experiences while investing in hospitality, community, and the future of the Whole Hog Invitational.

    Visit Centier

  • Founding Creative Partner

    Creating the original brand identity that introduced the Whole Hog Invitational in its inaugural year.

    Visit Katiko
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