MALVERN, Iowa — The unmistakable scent of barbecue smoke and sizzling funnel cakes returned to the Mills County Fairgrounds Thursday night, marking the start of another eagerly anticipated Food Truck Night season.
With eight vendors in tow — six offering food and two serving up specialty items — the fairgrounds transformed into a buzzing hub of culinary exploration, offering everything from tacos and Thai cuisine to homemade ice cream and fresh lemonade.
Originally launched in 2024, Food Truck Night has quickly become more than just a fundraiser for the Mills County Fair Association. According to association secretary Mary Bolton, it’s a way to bring the community together and showcase the fairgrounds, especially the lesser-known Lakin Center.
“This isn’t so much just a fundraiser,” Bolton said. “It’s to get people to socialize, to get people on our fairgrounds and see what we have.”
A Tasty Lineup Without Rivalry
Each vendor pays a $50 monthly fee to participate, with some attending every month and others appearing a few times throughout the season. Bolton ensures each night features diverse offerings, avoiding direct competition by not repeating cuisine styles.
“I try not to have the same foods because I try not to have them compete against each other,” Bolton said. “I want everybody to have a good night.”
Smokin’ Good Times, a local favorite known to frequent Malvern, was a big hit during the opening night and even sold out — a testament to its popularity and the event’s drawing power.
Community-Driven & Vendor-Approved
Vendors hail from across southwest Iowa, including Avoca, Council Bluffs, Denison, Glenwood, Henderson, and Oakland. Word of the event has spread far, with many vendors reaching out after hearing about its success last year.
Each food truck must provide liability insurance and a state food permit, ensuring a safe and reliable experience for attendees.
A Seasonal Experience With Growing Appeal
The event runs 5 to 8 p.m., with peak traffic usually hitting between 6 and 7 p.m. While turnout varies depending on school and sports schedules, May is often one of the busiest months.
Later in the summer, especially in July, crowds swell as 4-H families arrive to drop off livestock for the county fair — giving vendors a late-night rush.
In addition to food, guests can enjoy cold beverages, including soda, water, lemonade, and beer from the fairgrounds’ bar, operated in affiliation with the Lakin Center. All beverage proceeds support the fair board.
“It’s a family event,” Bolton emphasized. “There is beer available, pop and water … that money ends up back with the fair board.”
Looking Ahead
While Bolton would love to see the event match the scale of East Pottawattamie County Fair’s Food Truck Nights — which can draw in 11 or 12 trucks and hundreds of guests — she’s focused on quality over quantity until consistent sell-outs are achieved.
Upcoming Food Truck Night dates:
June 12
July 10
August 14
September 11
With its blend of community spirit, delicious variety, and lively atmosphere, Food Truck Night at the Mills County Fairgrounds is quickly becoming a must-visit summer tradition in southwest Iowa.
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