Food Fest at Treasure Island Casino

Did you know Minnesota has barbecue competitions all around the state? Honestly, we didn’t either, until this year. The first BBQ competition season this year kicked off at the Minnesota State Fair grounds in May. About a week or two ago there was another one in Owatonna, and this weekend takes us to Food Fest at Treasure Island Casino in Red Wing, MN.

What is Food Fest? Here’s how their website describes it:
“Savor the best BBQ from around the country as more than 40 of the nation’s top gastronomic rivals compete for more than just bragging rights. The Treasure Island Food Fest is an officially sanctioned Kansas City BBQ Society event where pit masters from all across the USA will compete for cash and prizes. There will also be a SCA Steak Cook-off on Friday night along with People’s Choice chili and appetizer competition.

Enjoy artisan food producers, sampling and selling their local food products. Shop for products such as sauces, salsas, dips, candies, spices, beverages and a host of other locally-produced foods from across the Midwest. There will be plenty of food vendors to grab a bite to eat and enjoy along with craft beers as well. To top it all off, enjoy free live entertainment from some of the hottest country acts around each day.”

We are beyond excited to spend three days eating great food, listening to fun entertainers, and meeting new friends. This event is going to combine many of the elements we love in an event. Family, friends, food, and music. One the best parts of this event is it’s FREE! Free to listen to top country singers and many vendors will have free samples.

Here’s the schedule for the weekend:
Friday, June 17, 5pm-10pm
SCA Steak Cook-off
People’s choice chili and appetizer competition
Live entertainment
Food vendors
Awards presented at 9pm

Saturday, June 18, 10am-9pm
Kansas City BBQ Society competition
Live entertainment
Food vendors
Awards presented at 5pm

Sunday June 19, 10am-5pm
Live entertainment
Food vendors

If you are interested in participating in this even here is the contact information. To cook contact Perry Vining, 507-402-6371 or to judge contact Dick Dahlen, 507-402-2350. Food concession vendors wishing to be considered for Food Fest, please contact Damon Holter at damonholter@croixvalleyfoods.com for additional information. You can also find more info here.

We hope to see you at Treasure Island Casino in Red Wing for another great Minnesota event!