The West Virginia Roadkill Cook-Off in Pocahontas County may be the most notorious festival in the state. It has landed in headlines across the state and nation for the attention-grabbing name and tongue-in-cheek concept. You see, the festival isn't actually about celebrating roadkill. It is more so about celebrating wild game in the mountains, which are the animals that you would find as roadkill. It is a clever way to pay homage to a West Virginia pastime that has been a part of many families' dinner tables for generations. This year, there were six competitors, and I was fortunate enough to be a judge, along with my two friends Alex and Jim. Shoutout to the Pocahontas Chamber of Commerce and Bill for inviting us. Attendees can purchase a wristband for $10 and get samples from each competitor. As judges, we were treated to a bit more of a show. 1. Roadkill Cleanup Crew - Bumper Bambi Wrap with Brain Sauce and Maggots and a deep-fried Bambi tail with sauce

These first-time competitors made a very solid venison soft taco. Complete with standard Tex-Mex spices, these tacos came with or without peppers, ground beef, cheese, venison and rice. For dessert, they had a deep fried marshmallow, which I didn't even know was possible. But I loved it. 2. The High Rocks Grow Getters - Front Fender Farm Stand Stir Fry

When I first walked up to this table, my mouth dropped in shock. They had a full tablescape with fall decor set up and three plated dinners for the judges. There was a full medium-cooked venison tenderloin, chargers, silverware, drinks and dessert. It was all made locally with a great cause, and the flavor was unmatched. There was a venison stirfry that tasted like the best teriyaki dish. There were butter and parsley potatoes, a small salad with homemade vinaigrette, sautéed kale and Swiss chard, local tomato juice, strawberry biscuits and cream. it was all fresh and delicious and I learned so much about what they do locally. They set the bar very high. 3. River Rats - River Rat-atouille

When we approached the River Rats' table, we were transported to France. There was music, champagne, a cheese board, and plenty of the cutest mouse servers you've ever seen. One mouse offered us fresh Parmesan and another ground fresh pepper. The venison ratatouille was served over rice and included, garlic, squash, eggplant, tomatoes and peppers. I appreciated the take on this; I just wish there was a crunchy element. 4. Ditch Divas - Bearfoot Breakfast

Finally, we encounter our second wild game meet of the day: bear. We were just served a small sample cup, but I enjoyed the very tender and flavorful bite. 5. PCB Buck Busters - Buck Busting Bumper Beans

These folks leaned in hard to their hillbilly theme. Hooting and hollering, they ushered us into the camouflage tent that had a red solo cup chandelier, and photos of dead possums hanging up. They had beer, homemade moonshine, and sweet tea in addition to their venison chili, which I learned was a version of grandma's recipe that used ground beef, kidney beans, baked beans, and butter beans. This was delicious. It had a touch of sweetness, a touch of spice, and there was cornbread and sour cream to take it to the next level. 6. Croakin' Bullfrogs - Croakin' Deer Stew

Lastly, we were seated at the Croakin' Bullfrogs to try their venison and frog leg stew. I think I missed the noodles and shredded cheese, but I was happy with the addition of a new game meat.

Congrats to the winners:
1st Place: The High Rocks Grow Getters
2nd Place: Pendleton Community Bank
3rd Place: Ditch Divas
Showmanship Award: River Rats
People’s Choice: Pendleton Community Bank

And, if you are interested in participating next year, you receive $250 just to compete and cover your costs. First place winner will leave town with $1,500. Second place can strut across the bridge with $750 in their pocket. Third place is $500. People’s Choice award will be worth $150 – and bragging rights.