Food Truck Wars is one of the largest and most exciting food truck festivals in the Lower Mainland. Hosted by the Greater Vancouver Food Truck Festival, the event takes place each spring at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds in Surrey. Food Truck Wars brings together dozens of food trucks, local artisan vendors, live music, and family-friendly entertainment.
To learn more about the event in Cloverdale, continue reading or visit the official Food Truck Wars website.
Surrey’s Food Truck Wars
The first Food Truck Wars event debuted in 2022 with around 40 food trucks, setting a high standard for food truck events in the region. In comparison, most Greater Vancouver Food Truck Festival events feature about 20 trucks, making this one twice the size of the average festival. All of the events in the series are excellent, and very tasty, but arguably this one more than any other.
After moving to Langley for a couple of years, Food Truck Wars has returned to Cloverdale, drawing thousands of visitors eager to sample a huge variety of eats, drinks, and artisan goods.
Admission to the event is by donation, with partial proceeds supporting a local non-profit charity.
When and Where
Food Truck Wars takes place at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds at 6050 176th Street in Surrey. It happens annually in the spring. In 2026 the event is on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday of April 10th to 12th.
Food Trucks & Vendors
Food Truck Wars features a wide variety of food trucks offering local favourites, international dishes, and plant-based options. Examples of participants from recent years include the following:
- Beavertails – iconic Canadian pastries
- Betty’s Greek Honey Balls – sweet, deep-fried delights
- Corn Dog King – classic fair-style snacks
- Mom’s Grilled Cheese and Melt Town – gourmet sandwiches
- Roasted Revolution, Rotato Potato, and Street Dogs – festival-style comfort food
- Taco Tigre, Zerelli’s, and Juicy Green Express – global fusion flavors
- Plus ice cream, lemonade, kettle corn, and mini donuts from top vendors like Mini Donut Factory
Nearly all food trucks offer vegetarian options, with many catering to gluten-free or plant-based diets.
Artisan Market & Activities
Aside from food, the festival also includes a curated artisan vendor market with over a dozen local creators offering handmade goods. Examples of vendors that have participated in the past include the following:
- D’Lux Bath & Body – soaps and skincare
- Drby Pet Co – pet accessories
- Beloved By Emily, Neo Naturelle, Lilac Rain, and Wick Off Candles – jewelry, candles, apparel, and natural products
- Sweet Collective Co, That’s A Good Cookie, and Susie’s Cindy Buns – sweet treats and baked goods
The event also features both live and DJ music, a licensed beer garden for adults, and a Kid Zone with interactive activities for families.
Entertainment & Music Lineup
Food Truck Wars features a full lineup of live entertainment throughout the weekend. The event offers a mix of high-energy DJ sets and live bands, creating a fun, upbeat vibe that keeps the crowd moving.
Whether you’re dancing in the beer garden or relaxing with a snack from your favourite truck, the nonstop music adds to the festival atmosphere and makes it a standout spring event in Surrey.
Food Truck Wars Competition
One of the unique features of Food Truck Wars is its fan-voted food competition. Attendees get to vote for their favourite vendors in categories such as:
- Best in Show – Overall top food truck
- Meat Sweats – Best ribs, brisket, and smoked meats
- Best Between Buns – Top burgers and sandwiches
- Sweet Treat – Best desserts
- Best International/Fusion – Global cuisine
- People’s Choice – Festival-goer favourite
- Best Plant-Based – Top vegetarian or vegan dish
- Food Champion – Best exclusive item only available at the festival
This fun twist gives attendees a chance to celebrate the tastiest bites and hidden gems.
Other Food Truck Festival Events
Food Truck Wars is just one of several events presented by the Greater Vancouver Food Truck Festival. Other seasonal festivals include the following:
- UBC Food Truck Fest – On campus at the AMS Nest Commons
- Chilliwack Party in the Park – In Central Community Park in spring
- Chilliwack Ribfest – Featuring BBQ ribs and live music at Vedder Park in July
- White Rock Night Market – Monthly evening markets along the waterfront from May to September
For up-to-date information about all events in the series, visit the Greater Vancouver Food Truck Festival website.