by John Stapleton, Contributing Editor
Car lovers, fans of food trucks, dog owners, along with business entrepreneurs and crafters packed in Ak-Chin Circle Entertainment Center Saturday, March 19 for four events.
After being postponed because of the pandemic, the Chihuahua Festival returned, breaking into its own event from The Central AZ Car & Bike Show.
Chihuahua Festival and Lil’ Doggie Races
Now called the Chihuahua Festival and Lil’ Doggie Races, the event had 30 “competitors” running their little legs off for the $250 cash prize along with the $250 gift basket from EarthWise Pets Maricopa. Even after a two-year layoff, Hazel returned to successfully defend her title of “Fastest on Four Little Legs”
Car & Bike Show Sponsored by 911 Air Repair, AZ Quality Plumbing
Central AZ Car and Bike Show, hosted by Reeds Classic Motor Company, became one of the biggest car show events in years. With 15 categories, about 200 participants came out to showcase their vehicle or motorcycle. Steve Stoiber’s 1970 GTO took home $500 and “Best in Show.”
Food Truck Battle Sponsored by Maricopa Real Estate Co., Nova Home Loans
For the first time, the Central Arizona Food Truck Battle was held at the entertainment complex, drawing a tremendous crowd as the variety of food trucks “competed.”
- People’s Choice,
Philly Up (based on sales) - Judges’ Choice,
Asian Seoul (Charlotte Stossel, owner, says she stuck with her popular menu item of Bulgogi Fries) - Best Taco,
Street Vibes Gourmet Kitchen (brought out their Vietnamese-Mexican recipe) - Best Dessert,
Mama Bears Mini-Kitchen
Business, Crafts Expo Sponsored by Attorney Angel Raymond
Also a first, The Western Pinal County Business and Crafts Expo brought out local business, nonprofits and crafters. Thousands of shoppers made their way exploring booths.
“It was a great day for everyone all around,” Angel Raymond said. “In addition to the shopping experience and meeting the businesses in the region, there was a ton of business-to-business networking that took place. We look forward to next year!”
Photos by Volo
