Meadowlands Racetrack Food Events Return for 2026

Wednesday, April 8, 2026

Spring has sprung, and the Meadowlands Racetrack is already thinking about summer, encouraging fans to mark their calendars for its popular foodie events. Restaurants, food trucks, and vendors interested in participating in these events can contact Rachel Ryan at raryan@playmeadowlands.com to secure a spot.

First up on the 2026 event calendar is the annual Meadowlands Racetrack Burger Battle slated for Saturday, May 9. The contest offers a $1,500 grand prize, with $1,000 for 2^nd place and $500 for third. There is also a $500 prize for the best-tasting burger patty. This free event runs from 5-11 pm and fans are encouraged to come out and taste some of the best local burgers.  Two lucky fans will win a spot at the Judging Table and help determine the top 3 burgers.

Twenty-six trucks are already registered for the Burger Battle, including:

Meadowlands Pace Night is set for Saturday, July 11, and will feature not only exciting racing but also numerous food trucks to feed the hungry fans. In addition to the food and racing, there will be DJ Alx, games, and other entertainment, making it a fun-filled night for the whole family.

The always-popular Seafood Festival is set for Saturday, August 1, featuring a live race card with eliminations for the $1 million Hambletonian and the $500,000 Hambletonian Oaks.  Fans will have the opportunity to enjoy a wide array of delicious seafood bites, including fish tacos, crab fries, lobster rolls, fried clams, fried fish, and more from their favorite trucks, including Star of the Sea Seafood, Angry Archie’s, and Tacoholics.  This free event runs from 5-11 pm.

The 101^st running of the Hambletonian happens on Saturday, August 8. Numerous food trucks will be on site, keeping fans happily stuffed while watching the world’s greatest harness racing.

On Saturday, August 29^th, the annual BBQ Extravaganza returns to the track. $2,500 is 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 5-11 pm and fans are encouraged to come out for 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, Lots of Meat Barbecue, Latin Bites, Bennett St. BBQ, and Kimchi Smoke are returning to defend their crowns. Bitch’n Bacon, Cat Like Reflexes, Michael’s Backyard BBQ, Carnival Concessions, DAW Concessions, Clyde’s Homemade Italian Ice and Ice Cream, and many more will also be at the event.

Details on all Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment events can be found at PlayMeadowlands.com.