Downtown business group preps for second annual food truck festival

by Matthew Noble ([email protected]) 254 views 

The Bar and Restaurant Committee of the Downtown Fort Smith Business Association has announced they will host the second annual Fort Smith Food Truck Festival on June 21 from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The Downtown Fort Smith Business Association’s website promises “a vibrant lineup of food trucks, each offering a unique fusion of flavors that reflect the city’s rich and diverse culinary heritage.”

According to Association Director Stephanie Nugent, last year’s success caused the organization to re-think the space needed to host the event. Last year’s event was held at 601 Garrison Ave. Nugent said there are plans to add tents and seating, along with more trucks.

When asked about last year’s turnout, Nugent said that although no official headcount was taken, it is estimated that between 3,000 and 4,000 people showed up to enjoy the music and of course the food. She said several trucks ran out of ingredients – some even twice – and had to re-stock to make it to last year’s scheduled 10 p.m. closing.

Food trucks at the 2024 event included 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 new location options are under discussion and a new spot will be announced well ahead of June 21. Nugent said depending on how many trucks are booked, the festival may move to 800 Garrison Ave., which can host about 30 trucks, or twice last year’s truck numbers. If more than 30 trucks sign-up, the association will need to coordinate with the city to find another location, she said.

“Enjoy an array of food trucks and be a part of the vibrant community that is Downtown Fort Smith,” Nugent said.

Other events planned for 2025 include a pub crawl on March 15, a May 17 car show, and the return of the New Years ball drop on Dec. 31.