AMARILLO, TX — In celebration of the 100th anniversary of the historic Route 66, the Big Texan Steak Ranch is taking its world-famous 72oz Steak Challenge on the road. Partnering with the Main Street of America Centennial Caravan and GoRoute66.com, a project launched by Gray Media’s KFDA, this once-in-a-century road show will bring the legendary steak challenge to cities across the Mother Road throughout June. Go Route 66 will capture past, present and future Route 66 moments and preserve them online while adding a media company’s backing to promote and tell so many of the Route 66 stories. The content consists of Historical feature pieces of locations and sites along the way, interviews of present people talking about the past and present, and weekly streaming events including the Big Texan Steak Ranch 72 oz. Steak Eating Competition nightly along the Caravan stops.
Known as one of America’s most iconic food challenges, the 72oz Steak Challenge dares contestants to consume a massive four-and-a-half-pound steak along with a baked potato, 3 shrimp, side salad, and a roll in under one hour. Those who succeed earn bragging rights—and their meal free of charge. Now, for the first time ever, fans along Route 66 will have the chance to experience the excitement live in their own hometowns.
“This is more than just a food challenge—it’s a celebration of Americana, tradition, and the spirit of Route 66,” said Bobby Lee, Second Generation Co-Owner of the Big Texan Steak Ranch. “We’re bringing the legend to the road that made America mobile.”
Want to Compete?
Think you have what it takes to conquer the 72oz Steak Challenge? Fans are invited to enter for a chance to compete when the road show comes to their city. Simply post a video or message on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok explaining why you’re the perfect candidate. Tag @thebigtexan and include your city as a hashtag for consideration.
About Big Texan Steak Ranch
Located in Amarillo, TX, the Big Texan Steak Ranch has been a legendary Route 66 destination since 1960. Owned and operated by the Lee Family for 66 years and famous for its larger-than-life personality, Texas hospitality, and the Home of the Free 72oz Steak. Come one, come all—because to be a legend, you have to eat the legend!
Tour Schedule (All Events Begin at 5:30 PM)
June 4 —Santa Monica, CA @ Santa Monica Pier
June 6 — Pasadena, CA @ 130 East Colorado Blvd
June 7 — Barstow, CA Barstow Harvey House
June 8 — Needles, CA @ Claypool Building
June 9 — Kingman, AZ @ Locomotive Park
June 10 — Flagstaff, AZ @ Best Western Pony Soldier Inn & Suites
June 11 — Gallup, NM @ McKinley County Courthouse
June 12 — Albuquerque, NM (Location TBA)
June 13 — Santa Fe, NM @ Palace of the Governors
June 14 — Santa Rosa, NM @ Blue Hole Conference Center
June 15 — Amarillo, TX @ Big Texan Steak Ranch
June 16 — Shamrock, TX @ The U-Drop Inn
June 17 — Oklahoma City, OK @ National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
June 18 — Tulsa, OK @ Mother Road Market
June 19 — Joplin, MO @ 1717 W. 7th Street
June 20 — Springfield, MO @ Best Western Rail Haven
June 21 — Rolla City Hall
June 22 — St. Louis (Location TBA)
June 23 — Springfield, IL @ Illinois Route 66 Experience at the State Fairgrounds
June 24 — Joliet , IL @ Old Joliet Prison
June 25 — Chicago (Location & Time TBA)
