DEARBORN, Mich. – The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the City of Dearborn and the West Dearborn Downtown Authority will host the first of three food truck rallies planned for this summer. The first event, sponsored by Westborn Market, will take place Friday, July 20 from 5 – 9 p.m. in Lot C, just north of Pizza Papalis west of Monroe Street. Patrons can expect 8-10 food trucks selling gourmet fare directly from their “kitchen-on-wheels.” Committed food trucks include Franks Anatra, Concrete Cuisine, Treat Dreams, Ned’s, Mack Shack, El Guappo, PPC, and Jacques Tacos. On average, food items are priced between $4-$7. While waiting in line, or enjoying delicious fare, patrons can enjoy live music as well.
Thanks to the Michigan Mobile Food Truck Association, food truck rallies are becoming very popular in the region with events scheduled regularly in Royal Oak, downtown Detroit and Ferndale among others. Future events will be held August 24 and September 21 from 5 – 9 p.m. in downtown West Dearborn.
Food trucks experienced a boom just as the economy started to decline in 2008. Restaurateurs who were hesitant to drop serious cash on launching a restaurant turned to mobile trucks as a less expensive way to sell food in a down economy. However, existing restaurants experience an upswing in revenue by proximity to these rallies. Social media has also played a large role in not only making the trucks more accessible, but allowing them to cultivate the crucial element of community.
“We think this will be an exciting and unique way to bring families downtown on Friday evenings for food, fun and entertainment,” said Jennifer Giering, President, Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce. “These community events have a tremendous economic impact on surrounding businesses with the first event in Ferndale attracting 1,500 people, many of which patronized local bars and restaurants after the event.”
The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce promotes the best interests of over 600 member organizations in Dearborn and Dearborn Heights by enhancing leadership opportunities, connection with prospective customers, endorsement of products and services, increasing sales and saving money.