27th Annual Magnolia Blossom Festival and World Championship Steak Cook-Off

Nothing like traveling Arkansas this time of year and attending some great festivals in the state. One of my favorites is the 27th Annual Magnolia Blossom Festival and 26th Annual World Championship Steak Cook-Off on May 15-16 in Magnolia, Ark.The Magnolia Blossom Festival kicks off with the Parade of World Championship Steak Cook-Off on Saturday at 10 a.m. Floats are usually decorated with a theme that the Chefs will use for their booth and cooking name in the competition. The parade route will begin at University Plaza and then will make it’s way down Main Street to the Magnolia Square where the steak cook-off takes place.

Other events will include a People's Bank Treasure Hunt, Fishing Tournament, Canine Fun Show, Miss Magnolia Blossom Festival Pageant, arts and crafts, 5K Race and One Mile Fun Run, Car Show and two great concerts.

Friday night (May 15) enjoy a free concert from Natalie Stovall & The Drive starting at 8 p.m. Then on Saturday night (May 16) at 8 p.m. ”The Long Run” Experience the Eagles; A tribute band from Los Angeles dedicated to faithfully recreating the timeless music of The Eagles.

In addition, this year will mark the 65th Anniversary of the annual art show. This show was started in 1950 by Marjorie Chamberlain, a local art teacher, to display her students’ paintings. The Sidewalk Art Show will now be held inside the new Magnolia Arts Center, located on the Square. Also taking place inside the Arts Center this year, a magic show for kids.

Can you cook a great steak? If so, sign up to participate in Magnolia’s famous World Championship Steak Cook-off in May. The best team wins the coveted Governor’s Trophy and BIG prize money because $10,000 in total prize money is up for grabs.

For more information and updates go to BlossomFestival.org or visit their Facebook page. 

This festival made USA Today & Food Network’s list of the “10 Best Food Festivals.”