Pork Roll Festivals Trenton NJ
What is Pork Roll?
My earliest memories of pork roll go back to my childhood growing up in Ewing Twp. NJ.
I remember the smell of sweet smokiness filling the air as my Mom, Dad or siblings fried the German Sausage in the black cast iron pan.
I remember asking why 3 to 4 small slices were placed around the perimeter.
“That’s to prevent the slice from bubbling.” In those days my sandwich was on white Wonder Bread with ketchup.
As I grew in age and responsibility my cooking efforts of pork roll included the addition of sautéed onions, peppers, carrots, topped with cheese on wheat bread.
This is what my Mom enjoyed.
I now call this the “Phoebe Lee.”
In college pork roll was a staple and enjoyed throughout the day; breakfast with eggs, lunch as a sandwich, dinner on a plate with sides and of course late night snacks making up any and all options.
2016 marks the 3
rd Edition of pork roll festival(s) in New Jersey’s Capital City of Trenton.
During one of our many chats, brainstorming sessions etc., Scott Miller, Owner of Exit 7A Studios told me he was thinking of having a Pork Roll festival.
I thought the idea was awesome and encouraged him to move ahead with planning.
He did and held the 1
st Pork Roll Festival at TC Nelson’s location Trenton Social.
The first event was very well attended and probably a bit overwhelming for all involved.
After the event Scott decided he wanted to take the event in another direction.
This led to a series of actions by both parties and now we have 2 Pork Roll Festivals.
That history is very public and easily accessible via an Internet search, if you have interest.
Scott Miller’s – The Original Pork Roll Festival (registered trademark)
TC Nelson’s – Trenton Pork Roll Festival
Each festival offers plenty to see, do and enjoy, they are also quite distinct in styles.
I suggest you visit the websites of each festival for details.
In the interim here are a few items I would like to highlight.
The Original Pork Roll Festival
- · Located in a public park, which can easily accommodate 1000’s of visitors. The park layout offers lots of space for attendees to walk around the location of the Battles of Trenton
- · Pork Roll Queen competition
- · Pork Roll Recipe Contest
The Trenton Pork Festival
- · Takes place at Trenton Social, a thriving brick & mortar business that has become a hub for live music, art and various gatherings in Trenton NJ.
- · The Pork Roll Out Bike Tour
- · VIP Area
I suggested and would like to see(n) a friendly competition between the businessmen where Pork Roll became(becomes) the official meat of Trenton NJ. Think of Philadelphia and the cheesesteak competition between Pat’s and Gino’s. I can see it now,
“Pork Roll Purveyor’s Case and Taylor’s to decide which festival they will sponsor.” “Pork Roll Festival Creators to announce this years theme at the Annual Pork Roll Event Announcement and Block Party.
In closing I consider Scott and TC my friends, I support the efforts of both men and know they want to have thriving businesses in Trenton NJ.
We have lots to see, do and explore in the Capital City of Trenton NJ and I encourage you to visit.
If you would like, get in touch and I will personally help you with the coordination.
trenton365show@gmail.com
