Get Ready for the Ultimate Burger Showdown at the American River Parkway Foundation Burger Battle!
American River Burger Battle
Mark your calendars, burger lovers—Sacramento’s tastiest event of the year is coming to Discovery Park on May 16th, 2026, from 5pm to 8pm! The American River Burger Battle is back, and it’s shaping up to be an epic culinary clash you won’t want to miss. Held during the Spring Recreation Fair, this event brings together eight talented chefs (and a couple of fearless fire departments!) to compete for the title of Sacramento’s Best Burger. With your ticket, you’ll get to sample every mouthwatering creation, sip on local brews, and cast your vote for the winner—all while supporting a fantastic cause.
This year’s lineup is stacked with heavy hitters.
Meet the Burger Chefs
Chef Sam Shafer, Revival at the Sawyer (reigning Judge’s Choice winner)
Chef Pedro Depina, 7th Street Standard (reigning People’s Choice winner)
Chef Michael Fagnoni, Moksa Barrel House
Chef Anthony Contreras, The Firehouse Restaurant
Chef Scott Ostrander, Gami Burger
Chef Matt Brown, Husick’s by Forester
Chef Gregory Desmangles, Good Neighbor
Sacramento Metro Fire
Sacramento City Fire
Meet the Celebrity Judges
PBS KVIE’s Abridged Writer Benjy Egel
Sacramento Food Influencer Alexis Frost
KCRA 3 Meteorologist Tamara Berg
District 4 Councilman Phil Pluckebaum
Who will take home the crown? That’s up to you and your taste buds!
For just $75, you’ll get access to this burger bonanza, complete with all-you-can-sample burgers and refreshing drinks. Plus, every ticket supports the American River Parkway Foundation and its Parkway CONNECT program, which works to preserve and enhance our beloved 23-mile urban natural park. Tickets are limited, so grab yours before they sell out! Join us at 1600 Garden Highway, Sacramento, CA 95833, for a day of food, fun, and community spirit. Let’s find out who’s got the best burger in town!
