Columbus Food Truck Festival coming to Hilliard
A mouth-watering array of cuisines, sweet treats and other delectables from more than 50 gourmet vendors will fill the Franklin County Fairgrounds in August during the Columbus Food Truck Festival, Hilliard Edition.
The festival, which was named Best Foodie Event in the state by Ohio Magazine in 2017, will take place - rain or shine - from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Aug. 19, and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Aug. 20.
In addition to the broad selection of foods offered by trucks from across the Midwest, the festival will showcase more than two dozen artisans and crafters and feature live music on two stages throughout the weekend. Also, the Hilliard Historical Society will offer exclusive tours and activities for festival ticketholders.
A complete food vendor lineup, performance schedule and list of participating artisans will be announced at a later date.
“We’re thrilled to be bringing the Columbus Food Truck Festival back for another year,” Chas Kaplan, who organizes the festival with Mike Gallicchio, said in a press release. “With so many delicious food options and fun activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
Aside from providing entertainment, the festival’s mission is to support small businesses and food tourism in the central Ohio area, and to help build awareness and support for local non-profit organizations. To that end, part of the proceeds from this year’s event will benefit the Ronald Mcdonald House Charities of Central Ohio and Music Loves Ohio, an organization that provides opportunities for central Ohio youth to pursue their passion for music.
“Both of these non-profit organizations give so much to the community, and we want to support their efforts,” Kaplan said.
Since the Columbus Food Truck Festival began in 2011, organizers have donated more than $80,000 to local charities.
Guests are encouraged to buy tickets in advance, as the festival is expected to sell out. Ticket sales will begin at a later date. Single-day admission is $5 per person when purchased online and in advance, and $7 online and at the door on festival days. Children 12 and younger will be admitted for free when accompanied by an adult 18 or older. Ticket sales will be announced at a later date, so check Columbusfoodtruckfest.com for updates.
Limited free on-site parking (first come, first served) is included with an admission ticket. On-street parking is also available around the Franklin County Fairgrounds, located at 4951 Northwest Parkway, Hilliard.
For more information about the Columbus Food Truck Festival, visit the event website, as well as its Facebook and Instagram pages under @colsfoodtruckfest.