Controlled Burn: A live fire cooking experience that fuels the future

BoysGrow is a 501(c)(3) organization with the mission to mentor urban youth through agricultural entrepreneurship. Teenage boys commit to our two-year program where they learn vocational skills and it is often their first paid job. Every year, BoysGrow hosts new events where all proceeds go towards programming and youth employment costs. Learn more about us at www.boysgrow.com

About the event:

On Sunday, October 4th, BoysGrow will host the 2nd annual Controlled Burn: an immersive open-fire dining experience where guests explore multiple chef-led hearths across the BoysGrow Farm. From bites served deep in the field to sips by the pond, every stop is a chapter in a night built to break the mold of traditional fundraisers.

With live entertainment, a farm transformed into an adventure, and dishes you’ll still be talking about weeks later, Controlled Burn is equal parts culinary celebration and community gathering. And every ticket supports BoysGrow’s mission to mentor and empower the next generation of Kansas City’s young men.

Please note:

VIP Experience is 3:30pm-4:30pm

If you did not purchase a VIP ticket, General Admission starts at 4:15pm. The Dinner is a guided experience so please arrive by 4:25pm.

What’s included:

• Chef-Crafted Experience – A roaming menu from some of Kansas City’s most exciting culinary talent, each helming their own open-fire hearth — featuring Amante Domingo (Noka, The Russell, Le Champion), Andrew Longres (Acre), Bradley Gilmore (Lulu Southern Cookhouse) & Emily Krowe (Green Dirt on Oak).
• Full Evening of Food & Drink – Explore four chef-led hearths, savoring bold bites, a fire-forged dessert, and plus curated cocktails from The Campground.
• Immersive Farm Experience – Journey across BoysGrow’s transformed 10 acres, where live music and hidden surprises await around every turn.

• Field Guide – A keepsake passport and companion piece with space to collect memories from your night.
• Auction & Raffle Opportunities – Bid on unique, exclusive items and experiences before and during the event. More information to come.
• Support for BoysGrow – Every ticket directly fuels mentorship, life skills training, and entrepreneurship programs for KC’s young men.

VIP Greenhouse Experience, limited to 70 guests:

• Private Happy Hour starting at 3:30pm in BoysGrow’s farm kitchen before the main event.
• Specialty bites from Victor Swerdlove from Pot Pie KC.
• A curated take-home gift set featuring custom Controlled Burns items.

Dress code:

Stylish yet comfortable. This is a walking adventure, so opt for comfortable shoes. Early October evenings can be cool, so bring layers.

Rain Contingency Plan:

Due to the complexity of the event and the coordination required with participating chefs, there is no rain contingency date. In the event of inclement weather, the event will continue indoors to the best of our ability. We sincerely appreciate your generous support.