Springdale will honor the Miracle League of Arkansas’ 20th anniversary this Sunday with a lively downtown celebration featuring the Great American Tailgate: Miracle League Burger Competition. The event will take place at Shiloh Square with public gates opening at 11:30 a.m., according to an event press release.
Local home cooks and professional chefs will face off to create the most impressive burger, with guests sampling sliders and casting votes for the People’s Choice Burger award. Tickets cost $20 per person, or $35 for those opting for a complimentary beer. Live music will be performed by Get in The Truck Band.
Proceeds from the event will support the Miracle League’s mission of providing children and adults with disabilities the opportunity to play baseball in an inclusive environment. "Every bite supports the Miracle League of Arkansas – where all kids with intellectual and/or physical disabilities have the chance to play America’s favorite pastime and experience the joy of the game," said Peggy McCall-Robertson, the league’s executive director.
The contest will feature live blind judging based on the World Food Championships’ E.A.T. Method. Judges will evaluate burgers on various criteria after competitors submit their creations every five minutes. Attendees will also participate by voting for their favorite slider in the People’s Choice category, judged on creativity, skill, and flavor.
Event day activities begin early for competitors, with setup scheduled for 8 a.m. and live judging starting at noon. People’s Choice voting tickets will be distributed at 1:50 p.m., with voting concluding by 2:05 p.m. Winners in both the Blind Judge and People’s Choice categories will be announced at 2:15 p.m., and the event will end shortly thereafter at 2:30 p.m.
This year’s Blind Judge Winner will earn a “Golden Ticket” that includes complimentary entry to the World Food Championships in Indianapolis, a $500 cash prize, and free entry to next year’s Miracle League Burger Competition. The People’s Choice winner will also receive $500 and free entry to the 2024 contest. A $250 second-place cash prize will be awarded in both categories.
Competitors must pay a $175 entry fee and bring their own toppings and equipment, while organizers will provide ground beef, buns, and a designated street-side cooking space.
For two decades, the Miracle League of Arkansas has worked to ensure that individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities can experience the joys of playing baseball. Sunday’s event offers an opportunity for the community to come together to support this important mission while enjoying food, music, and friendly competition.