BULL SHOALS, Ark. — If you think your chili could bring people to their knees—or your pulled pork is practically legendary—then October 25 just might be your day. The Big Dam Food Fight: A Food Competition will be held at Dam Site Campground next to the iconic Bull Shoals Dam, inviting home cooks and food lovers across the region to dig in and duke it out—without an actual food fight.
Hosted by the Bull Shoals Lake-White River Chamber of Commerce, the event merges community spirit with culinary rivalry, awarding cash prizes and bragging rights in categories ranging from savory to sweet. The competition kicks off with public sampling beginning at 1 p.m., followed by judging at 3 p.m. and an awards ceremony at 4 p.m.
Categories include chili and pulled pork at $50 per entry, and cobbler, cornbread, casseroles, cakes and cookies at $25 per entry. Prizes will be awarded in each category, with a People’s Choice award also on the line.
Whether cooking, tasting, or cheering on contestants, visitors can expect bold flavors, friendly competition, and a “Big Dam” good time. The Dam Site Park and Campground setting provides a scenic backdrop beside Bull Shoals Dam, making the event a highlight of the fall season.
Contestants must register through the Chamber of Commerce website, while the public is invited to attend, sample entries, and vote for their favorites. Organizers say the competition is designed to showcase local culinary talent and bring the community together in celebration of food, fun, and fall flavors.
