Inaugural Fort Smith food truck festival set for June 22

Fort Smith foodies will be in for a treat during the inaugural Fort Smith Food Truck Festival on June 22. The event is presented by the Fort Smith Downtown Business Association and Bar & Restaurant Committee.

Organizers say it will “ignite downtown Fort Smith with a gastronomic extravaganza unlike any other.” Stephanie Nugent, director of the Fort Smith Downtown Business Association, said a diverse array of food trucks will offer an eclectic fusion of flavors that celebrate the city’s rich culinary tapestry.

So far 11 food trucks have signed on for the event, which will be from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., June 22 in the First National Bank parking lot at 601 Garrison Ave., in downtown Fort Smith. Nugent said they will probably limit the number of trucks to 12 this first year.

Among those prepared to be on hand for the event are Kona Ice; the Boujee Lemon, which specializes in homemade lemonades and other fresh drinks; Beavertails, billed as whole-wheat Canadian pastries served hot with choice of toppings, Lucky’s Mini Donuts; Jarabes Tapatios; Country Snow; Smoky B’s with their barbecue, wings and original sides; Wing Kraze; Brew House; Mackey’s Catfish; and Bella’s Boba, Nugent said.

“From savory delights to sweet indulgences, there’s sure to be something to satisfy every palate,” the press release said.

Big Al and the Blues Cats will perform during the event. Sponsors of this year’s event include Hanna Oil & Gas, Choctaw Casinos, and First National Bank of Fort Smith.

“The event supports our mission to bring fun, family-friendly events downtown and will help us raise money for our Oktoberfest/Fall Festival,” Nugent said.

The Fort Smith Downtown Business Association’s mission is to develop and promote the downtown area as a culmination of services, shopping, entertainment, dining, history, and values of tradition within the community. FSDBA meets the third Wednesday of the month at 5:30 p.m., in The Cooler Room of The Bakery District.