Hungry for a taste of the Old West minus the stampedes and bowed legs? Check out the Chandler Chuck Wagon Cook-Off, a unique, two-day event named one of the best in the country by American Cowboy magazine.
This Friday and Saturday, November 11 and 12, nine authentic chuck wagon teams from across the southwest will bring their mobile kitchen know-how to Chandler's Tumbleweed Ranch (within Tumbleweed Park) for a five-course cook-off of foods typically prepared on an 1880s cattle drive: bread, beans, meat, potatoes, and dessert. Judges will select winners in each category, as well as best authentic wagon and best overall meal.
Read on for the deets.
Presented by the Chandler Museum and designated as an official Arizona Centennial event, the Chuck Wagon Cook-Off, now in its second year, will include a pre-event on Friday, November 11, where guests can meet the wagon teams and enjoy an evening marshmallow roast. The main event happens from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, November 12, where, in addition to the cook-off, there will be live music, historic home tours, horse rides, and activities for the kids.
"More than 2,000 people attended our inaugural Chuck Wagon Cook-off last year to get a real, up close view of a bygone era that most people have only seen in the movies or on TV," says Chandler Museum Director Jody Crago. "Everyone loved the food. But it was the historical authenticity and tradition demonstrated by our wagon teams that proved the Old West lifestyle appeals to all ages."
Admission, parking, and most activities are free at the Chuck Wagon Cook-Off, but there are fees for the petting zoo, horse rides, and all food and beverages. Guests can purchase a plate of chuck wagon food on November 12 beginning at 9 a.m. for $10. Chuck wagon meals are limited and will most likely sell out by 11:30 a.m. so come early.
Local vendors will also be selling food and beverages throughout the day including the Arizona Fry Bread Co., Chandler BBQ Co., and Udder Delights.
For more information, go here.