The Bakken Rocks CookFest firing up for its epic return
MK French
Farmer Staff Writer
Get those taste buds ready, because one of Western North Dakota’s most anticipated summer shindigs is making a grand return!
On Thursday, July 17, the 17th Annual Bakken Rocks CookFest is set to transform Alexander City Park into a hub of finger-licking barbecue, family fun, and fascinating insights into the energy industry that fuels our state.
If you’ve never experienced the CookFest, you’re in for a treat. Imagine a vibrant community gathering where the aroma of slow-cooked meats fills the air, kids laugh in a bounce house, and live music sets the perfect backdrop for a summer evening. But it’s more than just a party - it’s a chance to connect with the folks who work in the oil and gas sector and even learn a little about what makes North Dakota tick.
Ron Ness, CEO of the North Dakota Petroleum Foundation, couldn’t be more excited about bringing the festivities back to Alexander. “The Bakken Rocks CookFest is more than just a BBQ - it’s a celebration of the communities that power North Dakota’s energy future,” Ness shared. He added, “We’re proud to return to Alexander and bring together families, friends, and industry partners for a day of connection, conversation, and community pride. We look forward to celebrating 74 years of oil production in North Dakota through this fun, family-friendly event.”
This isn’t just any backyard barbecue. Local oil and natural gas companies will be duking it out for culinary bragging rights, competing for both the coveted People’s Choice and Judges’ Choice awards. Expect a mouthwatering spread of ribs, brisket, and all sorts of barbecue delights. Just a few of the companies bringing their A-game to the grills include industry giants like Continental Resources and Hess Corporation, alongside local favorites such as Hall Trucking and Lund Oil. Come hungry, because you’ll want to sample as much as possible before casting your vote for the People’s Choice award!
The fun doesn’t stop at the food. Mendenhall Crossing will be on hand to provide fantastic live musical entertainment, ensuring a lively atmosphere. For the younger attendees, there will be a bouncy house, plenty of games, and engaging activities hosted by the folks at North Dakota Gateway to Science. Every activity on offer is completely free and open to everyone in the community.
Before the main barbecue bash kicks off, curious minds can head over to Alexander City Hall (112 Manning Ave.) from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. for the Bakken Basics Education Session. This is your chance to hear directly from experts about drilling, geology, energy’s future, oil and gas updates from the Department of Mineral Resources, and even how Bakken crude is transported. It’s a fantastic opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the industry’s role in our daily lives, and all are welcome to attend this informative session.
The main barbecue and festivities at Alexander City Park will run from 4 to 7 p.m., with the highly anticipated awards ceremony for the Judge’s Choice and People’s Choice cook-off champions happening at 6:45 p.m.
The Bakken Rocks CookFest has a long history of bringing communities together, having hosted over 27,000 people across 27 different communities since 2009. Alexander first hosted this grand event back in 2015, and it’s clear the community made a memorable impression, as the CookFest is eagerly returning. According to Ness, these events typically draw between 1,000 and 1,500 people, with many traveling from surrounding areas to partake in the celebration.
So mark your calendars, tell your neighbors, and bring the whole family! This is an ideal chance to enjoy some incredible food, listen to great music, let the kids burn off some energy, and learn more about the industry that supports so many in our region. Don’t miss out on Alexander’s chance to shine at the 17th Annual Bakken Rocks CookFest!
For more details about the event, visit: https://ndpetroleumfoundation.org/event/bakkenrockscookfest/
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