PHOTO: Prince tribute band The Purple Madness will perform at the Magnolia Blossom Festival.
The Magnolia Blossom Festival and World Championship Steak Cook-Off returns May 16–17, 2025.
New for 2025 will be the chance for the public to sample steaks like a judge before the big meal. “Steak Sampler Tickets” allow guests to try 10 steak samples from participating cook teams between 3-4 p.m. Saturday, May 17, 2025. It’s the perfect “try before you buy” opportunity for steak lovers.
This year’s festival theme is “Back to the Future” in homage to the 1980s film series. Guests and cook teams are encouraged to get creative, whether rocking a Marty McFly look, showing up in futuristic attire, or embracing a blast-from-the-past style.
The weekend kicks off with free live entertainment Friday night, May 16 on the Albemarle Stage. This year’s headliner is Purple Madness, a dynamic Prince tribute band delivering the iconic sound and style of the Purple One.
The World Championship Steak Cook-Off is still accepting cook team registrations. There’s room for both seasoned competitors or a first-timer.
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