Meadowlands Racetrack management is already thinking about summer and encouraging fans to mark their calendars for its popular foodie events.
On Saturday, July 8, the annual BBQ Extravaganza returns to the track on elimination night for the Meadowlands Pace. Prizes totalling $2,500 are up for grabs in the Extravaganza, with $500 top prizes for the best brisket, chicken, pulled pork and ribs, and people’s choice. This free event runs from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. featuring some of the best BBQ in the area. Two lucky fans will win a spot at the Judging Table and help determine the top BBQ in each category.
Past food truck champions Magic Mike’s Smoked Meats, Latin bites and Antojitos di mi Tierra are returning to defend their crowns. South Jersey BBQ Boyz, Cat Like Reflexes, Beared One BBQ, Big John’s Gourmet Burgers, Rods Fish and Chips, DAW Concessions and Clyde’s Homemade Italian Ice and Ice Cream will also be at the event.
The annual Meadowlands Racetrack Burger Battle is slated for Saturday, July 15, Meadowlands Pace night. The contest offers a $1,500 grand prize with $1,000 for second place and $500 for third. There is also a $500 prize for best tasting burger patty. This free event runs from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. featuring some of the best local burgers. Two lucky fans will win a spot at the Judging Table and help determine the top three burgers.
Twelve area food trucks are already signed up to participate including Spanky’s Gourmet Grub, Latin Bites, The Why Not Burgerz, Magic Mike’s Smoked Meats, Rods Fish and Chips, Cat Like Reflexes, Antojitos di mi Tierra, Big John’s Gourmet Burgers, DAW Cocnessions, Taxi Cab Burger, The Mozzarella God and Clyde’s Homemade Italian Ice and Ice Cream.
The always popular Seafood Festival is scheduled for Saturday, July 29 with the live race card featuring eliminations for the $1 million Hambletonian and $500,000 Hambletonian Oaks. Fans will have a chance to grab some delicious seafood bites including fish tacos, crab fries, lobster rolls, fried clams, fried fish and much more.
Already registered vendors include Latin Bites, Angry Archie’s, Magic Mike’s Smoked Meats, Green Dog Mobile, Antojitos di mi Tierra, Rods Fish & Chips, Clyde’s Homemade Italian Ice and Ice Cream and Cat Like Reflexes. This free event runs from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Hambletonian Day on Saturday, Aug. 5 will also feature numerous food trucks to keep fans happily stuffed while watching the world’s greatest harness racing.
“These are some of our most popular on-track events,” said Jason Settlemoir, COO and GM of Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment. “We want to make sure these dates are marked on our fans' and food vendor calendars -- it is never too early to think about enjoying a night at the track while enjoying delicious local food!”
Details on all Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment events can be found at PlayMeadowlands.com.
Restaurants, food trucks and vendors interested in participating at these events can reach out to Rachel Ryan at [email protected] to secure a spot.
(With files from The Meadowlands)