Loveland's Can't-Miss Food Truck Rally Draws Hungry Crowds

The Popular Loveland Food Truck Rally

The Loveland Food Truck Rally has become an incredibly popular event in Northern Colorado over the past few years. Held in Loveland's Fairgrounds Park, the rally brings together a wide variety of food trucks from across the region, serving up delicious eats to large crowds.

The Origins of the Loveland Food Truck Rally

The Loveland Food Truck Rally traces its origins back to 2017, when the first rally was held. The concept of bringing numerous food trucks together for a big community event came from the Northern Colorado Food Cluster and the Loveland Downtown District. They wanted to create an exciting foodie event that would bring people together and highlight the area's thriving mobile food scene.

That first Loveland Food Truck Rally was held on June 17, 2017 and was an immediate success. Approximately 2,500 people attended that inaugural rally on a very hot late spring day. But people didn't seem to mind the heat and turned out in droves to sample tacos, BBQ, hot dogs, gyros, donuts, and all kinds of other tasty treats from over a dozen trucks.

The Growing Popularity of the Event

In just a few short years, the Loveland Food Truck Rally has grown enormously in popularity. In 2021, the rally drew over 7,500 people on one Saturday in August. By 2022, event organizers estimate nearly 10,000 people attended at the peak of the evening.

The food truck rally now features live music from local bands and has a festive, fun atmosphere. There are activities for kids like face painting, balloon animals, and more. Plus, Fairgrounds Park offers plenty of open space for people to hang out with friends while enjoying great food.

Wide Variety of Food Trucks

One of the best things about the Loveland Food Truck Rally is the amazing variety of mobile cuisine available. In 2022, over 40 different food trucks participated in the rally, serving everything from giant turkey legs to vegan cupcakes.

Some of the most popular trucks and booths have included:

• Barbacoa Mexican Grill - Serving smoky, tender beef barbacoa tacos and giant burritos loaded with meat and toppings.
• What's the Scoop - Big waffle cones overflowing with ice cream in flavors like salted caramel and cookies & cream.
• Totally Baked - Ooey, gooey grilled cheese sandwiches made with artisan breads and interesting ingredients like fig jam, avocado, and bacon.
• Berlin Station Donuts - Fresh, hot, sugary donuts in flavors like maple bacon, cookies & cream, and cinnamon roll.

Something for Every Palate

From those who want traditional festival foods like funnel cakes and sausage subs to vegans and vegetarians, there is something for every palate and preference at the Loveland Food Truck Rally.

Vendors have really stepped up their games in recent years to offer more diverse, inventive menus. You'll find organic juices, dairy-free ice cream, jackfruit carnitas tacos, and all kinds of gluten-free, nut-free, and other allergy-friendly options. They want to make sure every attendee can find fantastic foods to enjoy.

If You Go: Tips for Attending

If you plan to attend a future Loveland Food Truck Rally, here are some helpful tips to make the most of your experience:

• Go early - Many trucks start serving around 11 am and the festival gets especially busy between 12-2 pm.
• Bring small bills - Most trucks cannot make change for $50 and $100 bills.
• Bring your appetite! - Come hungry and pace yourself. With so many great food smells and choices, it's tempting to overorder.
• Be adventurous - Try foods you've never had before from trucks that are new to you.
• Bring sunscreen/hats/chairs - Much of the seating is picnic tables and grassy areas without shade.

A Much-Loved Local Tradition

The Loveland Food Truck Rally has fast become one of the most popular events of the summer in Northern Colorado. It draws hungry crowds from near and far for good reason - an amazing variety of fantastic foods served up by talented small businesses. If you haven't checked out this delicious community festival yet, be sure mark your calendars for 2023!

FAQs

What are the dates and times for the 2023 event?

The 2023 Loveland Food Truck Rally will take place on Saturday, August 12th from 11am to 8pm at Fairgrounds Park in Loveland.

How much does it cost to attend?

Admission to the Loveland Food Truck Rally is free. You simply pay for whatever food and drinks you choose to purchase from the trucks and booths.

What payment methods do the food trucks accept?

Most trucks accept cash and major credit/debit cards. However, some may be cash only. Having small bills is recommended as trucks often cannot make change for large denominations.

Is the event kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The Loveland Food Truck Rally offers plenty to keep kids entertained including face painting, balloon animals, yard games, and music. The wide variety of food options ensures every member of the family will find something they love to eat.