The 2025 Hopkins County Stew Contest brought another year of friendly rivalry, hometown flavor, and community spirit to Heritage Park. From creative campsites to hearty beef and chicken stews, teams from across Hopkins County and beyond competed for bragging rights and generous prizes—all while keeping alive one of Sulphur Springs’ most beloved traditions.
Campsite and Costume Awards
This year’s Campsite and Costume winner went to Molly Stevens and Randy Brokmeyer (Site #196), sponsored by Jackson Dental. Their $200 prize was provided by Super Handy Convenience Stores.
Honorable Mention in the Campsite and Costume category was awarded to Jason and Angie Keyes (Site #447), sponsored by Brookshire’s.
The prestigious John Chester Award for Super Campsite went to Roger Fernandez and Aaron Davis (Site #202), sponsored by Boby Evans Farms, with a $250 prize courtesy of Brian Toliver Ford.
Tailgate Appetizer Contest
Creativity didn’t stop at stew.
- First place: Zach Terry and Cam McLaurn (Site #190), sponsored by Kasie’s Canine Academy, $200 provided by Robinson Benat Construction.
- Second place: Kayla Cooper and Mason Carver (Site #3), sponsored by 2 Wolves Energy, $100 provided by Robinson Benat Construction.
- Third place: Patricia Grossenbacher and Aaron Davis, sponsored by Bob Evans Farms, $75 provided by Robinson Benat Construction.
Best New Stew Cook
This year’s Best New Stew Cook honor went to Zach Tiemeyer and Talon Bell (Site #80), sponsored by TLC Chiropractic. They received a $100 prize from Bear Littleton State Farm Insurance.
Beef Stew Winners
- First place: Jeremy Smith and Chris Bryant (Site #29), sponsored by Fizzy Sips, received $300 from Cattlemen’s Veterinary Services. Their stew was purchased for $600 by Texas Farm Credit.
- Second place: Darien Shafer and Reed Brenner (Site #47), sponsored by D6, Inc., earned $150 from The Book Nook on Main. Their stew sold for $450 to Clayton Homes.
- Third place: Marsha Mince and John Holt (Site #20), sponsored by Data Point Surveying, won $100 from AK Gillis and Sons, and their stew was purchased for $250 by Texas Heritage National Bank.
- Honorable Mention: Brody and Trey Clark (Site #128), sponsored by Safety Control.
Chicken Stew Winners
- First place: Avery Faulks and Peyton Mitchell (Site #112), self-sponsored, took home $300 from First National Bank of East Texas, and their stew sold for $600 to Jay Hodge Chevrolet.
- Second place: Luke Kerby and Seth Roberts (Site #30), sponsored by Cross Country Communications, earned $150 from The Book Nook on Main, and their stew sold for $450 to Clayton Homes.
- Third place: Ross Cody and Lance Smith (Site #463), sponsored by Clayton Homes, received $100 from AK Gillis and Sons, and their stew sold for $250 to Brian Toliver Ford Lincoln.
- Honorable Mention: Shiloh and Adrian Childress (Site #197), sponsored by Project One Roofing.
Super Stew: Beef Division
- First place: Koyt Koon and Anthony Ballard (Site #50), sponsored by Oncor Electric Delivery, claimed $500 from Thoroughbred Wind, and their stew sold for $900 to Farm Country.
- Second place: Roger Fernandez and Aaron Davis (Site #202), sponsored by Bob Evans Farms, won $250 from Farmers Electric Cooperative, and their stew sold for $500 to Ziggi’s Coffee.
- Third place: Garrett and Laura Glass (Site #468), sponsored by Guaranty Bank, received $100 from Jiffy Signs, and their stew sold for $300 to Oncor Electric Delivery.
- Honorable Mention: Robert Cody and Ryan McKenzie (Site #60), sponsored by GSC.
Super Stew: Chicken Division
- First place: John Mark and Savanna McAfee (Site #117), sponsored by McAfee Farms, received $500 from Thoroughbred Wind, and their stew sold for $900 to Interstate Body Shop.
- Second place: Brad and Leah Irving (Site #87), sponsored by Ocean Spray, took home $250 from Farmers Electric Cooperative, and their stew sold for $500 to Ziggi’s Coffee.
- Third place: Don Sapaugh and James Van Winkle (Site #9), sponsored by City National Bank, earned $100 from Superior Cleaning, and their stew sold for $300 to Nottingham CDJR.
- Honorable Mention: Jeff Tiemeyer and Andy Crouch (Site #114), sponsored by The Way Bible Church.
Honoring Tradition and Community
From the creative campsite decorations to the friendly rivalry over the perfect stew recipe, this year’s contest showcased the heart of Sulphur Springs. Each team’s dedication reflects the community’s ongoing love for this timeless event that brings together families, friends, and visitors from across Northeast Texas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hopkins County Stew Contest?
A community cook-off in Sulphur Springs where teams prepare beef or chicken stew over open fires, alongside campsite and appetizer competitions.
When is the contest held?
It is typically held in late October. Gates open in the morning and serving begins around midday after judging.
Where is the contest located?
Buford Park. 733 Connally St, Sulphur Springs, TX 75482
How much are tickets or bowls?
Prices can vary by year. Check the current year’s event details or gate signage for bowl and entry prices.
What is the difference between Beef/Chicken and Super Stew divisions?
Super Stew divisions are advanced categories that are judged separately from the main beef and chicken divisions.
How do I enter a team?
Teams must pre-register with the event organizers. Spots are limited and often sell out quickly.
Are there campsite and costume awards?
Yes. Campsite presentation and costumes are judged and awarded separately with their own prizes.
Is the event family-friendly?
Yes. Expect a festival atmosphere with activities suitable for families and children.
What time does serving begin?
Serving generally begins around midday once judging has concluded.
Where can I see the winners?
The winners for 2025 are listed in the article above.