2026 Wild Game Cook-Offs
Taste. Compete. Celebrate the Wild.
The Wild Game Cook-Off is where Idaho’s outdoors meets the kitchen. From elk and venison to waterfowl and more, this event brings together hunters, cooks, and sportsmen and women for a one-of-a-kind afternoon of incredible food and friendly competition. Whether you're here to showcase your best dish or just taste what Idaho has to offer, you won’t want to miss it.
Pull up a chair - we can’t wait to see you at the table.
Experience the Wild Game Cook-Off
The Wild Game Cook-Off isn’t just for cook teams - it’s for everyone who loves great food, community, and the outdoors! Come sample a wide variety of delicious wild game dishes prepared by talented teams from across the region. Each dish is crafted with care, creativity, and a deep appreciation for Idaho’s hunting and outdoor heritage.
Beyond the food, the event is packed with entertainment and activities. Enjoy live music, browse our silent auction, and enter our raffle for outdoor gear and other prizes. Whether you’re an avid hunter, a foodie, or just looking for a fun outing with family and friends, the Cook-Off offers something for everyone. Join us - taste, explore, and celebrate the flavors and traditions that make Idaho’s outdoor community so special.
Choose Your Cook-Off
Boise Wild Game Cook-Off
Saturday, June 20 | Expo Idaho
Ready to step behind the table and showcase your wild game skills? The Boise Wild Game Cook-Off is your chance to compete, connect, and share your passion for wild game cooking with the community.
Cook teams will prepare and present their dishes at the Rose Garden at Expo Idaho, serving samples to both judges and the public. Each team will submit entries for judging beginning at 3 p.m., followed by the public event at 5 p.m., where attendees get to experience the incredible variety of flavors firsthand.
Participation is free, but all teams must pre-register by May 15, 2026. Teams of up to four adults will receive complimentary 2026 Cook-Off t-shirts, and have the opportunity to compete for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards - plus a special Best Presentation award for standout cook team setups.
Beyond the competition, the event features live music, a silent auction, and raffle items geared toward outdoor enthusiasts, making it a full evening of food, fun, and community.
Spots are limited - submit your registration by May 15 to compete in Boise.
North Idaho Wild Game Cook-Off
Saturday, Aug 1 | North Idaho Archery
Round 2 is coming to North Idaho! If you loved the Boise Cook-Off - or missed it - this is your chance to bring your best wild game dishes to the table and compete with your fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Cook teams will prepare and present their entries at North Idaho Archery in Coeur d’Alene for judging starting at 3 p.m., with the event opening to the public at 5 p.m. Each team provides samples for judges and at least 50 bite-sized portions for attendees, giving the crowd a taste of your creativity and skill.
Participation is free, but all teams must pre-register by June 26, 2026. Teams of up to four adults receive complimentary 2026 Cook-Off t-shirts and can compete for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards, a Best Presentation award, and even a Crowd Favorite recognition.
Alongside the competition, enjoy live music, a silent auction, and a raffle full of gear for the outdoor enthusiast.
Spots are limited - submit your registration by June 26 to compete in CDA.
Your Wild Game Playbook
Everything you need to jump in and compete is right here! Rules, guidelines, registration forms - this packet has it all. Grab it, read up, share it, and start planning your winning dish for a chance to impress the judges, delight the crowd, and take-home bragging rights (and prizes!).