GRAHAM, TX - This past weekend, the charming town of Graham, TX, hosted the annual Food Truck Championship of Texas Festival, which was nothing short of spectacular. Split into two main portions, the festival delivered an unforgettable experience from sunny midday delights to a thrilling nighttime concert.
Daytime Festival: Culinary Delights and Local Charm
The festival kicked off in the heart of downtown Graham, where over 30 food trucks lined the expansive 8-acre Young County square. The weather was beautiful, though teetering on the hot side, but that didn't deter the enthusiastic crowds. Live entertainment had just concluded as we arrived, but the vibrant atmosphere continued as we strolled around the square.
Visitors had plenty to explore, from the food trucks' delicious offerings to the northern square's Texan artisan section. This area featured unique art, jewelry, and collectibles, adding a local flair to the event. Kids enjoyed the face-painting booth, which was a hit despite the long lines.
Local businesses, like Pratt’s Books, provided a refreshing break from the heat, allowing us to cool down in air-conditioned comfort. One thoughtful touch from the festival organizers was free cold bottled water, ensuring everyone stayed hydrated and safe.
Admission to the daytime festivities was free, making it accessible for all to enjoy. The afternoon's highlight was the awards ceremony at 3:15 pm, where the grand prize of $10,000 was awarded to the top food truck.
Nighttime Concert: Electrifying Performances at Young County Arena
As the sun set, the action shifted to the Young County Arena, just outside Graham, for an evening of live music. The arena, typically a rodeo venue, was transformed into a perfect concert setting with a mobile stage, half reserved for general admission and half for VIPs.
Reckless Kelly opened the show with a powerful stage presence. The Austin-based band captivated the audience with their unique blend of Irish-inspired Americana and country music, featuring mandolins, fiddles, upright bass, and pedal steel guitar.
The headliner, Shane Smith & the Saints, delivered a raw and dynamic performance. Their set began with a slow build but quickly escalated into high-energy music, complemented by fantastic stage lighting that added to the impact of their sound.
The VIP experience, sponsored by Ciera Bank, included refreshments and festival goodies. However, there was a notable downside: VIPs had to use basic porta potties, while general admission attendees had access to the venue's regular restrooms. This was a letdown for the VIP patrons, and it’s an area for improvement in future events.
Whether fans chose to bring lawn chairs or sit in the bleachers, everyone had a great view and enjoyed the cool, shaded comfort of the indoor arena.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Food Truck Championship of Texas Festival was slightly improved over last year's event, offering a day full of culinary delights and an evening of stellar music. We had an incredible time and are already looking forward to next June! Stay tuned for more updates and reviews from Texas Country Tour. Be sure to check out the entire photo album of this event by clicking here.
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