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.
Treasure Valley Wild Game Cook-Off
Join us on Saturday, June 20, at Expo Idaho for an afternoon of incredible wild game dishes, live music, raffles, and community.
The Boise Wild Game Cook-Off opens to the public at 3 p.m., with cook team judging beginning at the same time and Idaho singer-songwriter Connor Jay Liess performing live from 3–7 p.m.
Whether you're competing, sampling dishes, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, you'll find plenty to experience as we celebrate Idaho's wildlife, public lands, and sporting heritage. The event runs through 9 p.m.
Register your cook team below. Tickets are available online or at the gate, and kids 12 and under attend free.
North Idaho Wild Game Cook-Off
Join us on Saturday, August 1, at North Idaho Archery for an afternoon of incredible wild game dishes, raffles, and community.
The North Idaho Wild Game Cook-Off opens to the public at 3 p.m., with cook team judging beginning at the same time.
Whether you're competing, sampling dishes, or simply enjoying the event, you'll have the opportunity to connect with fellow outdoorsmen and women while celebrating Idaho's wildlife, public lands, and sporting heritage. We can't wait to see you around the table!
Register your cook team below. Tickets are available online or at the gate, and kids 12 and under attend free.
Choose Your Cook-Off
Treasure Valley 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. Starting at 3 p.m., judging begins and the public tasting opens, giving attendees the opportunity to experience an incredible variety of wild game flavors firsthand.
Participation is free, but all teams must pre-register by June 16, 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.
There’s no fee for competitors. Spots are limited - submit your registration by June 16 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, with judging and public tasting beginning at 3 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 July 22, 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.
There’s no fee for competitors. Spots are limited - submit your registration by July 22 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!).
A big thank you to our
2026 Wild Game Cook-Off Series
Donors & Sponsors
