An annual event organized by the Hill Country Cookoff Association, the Cinco de Mayo Menudo Throwdown, takes place on May 3 at the Hays County Courthouse lawn. This gathering transcends the boundaries of a typical cook-off by combining culinary artistry with charitable efforts aimed at supporting children battling cancer. The proceeds from this vibrant festival benefit Ellianna Rios, an eight-year-old leukemia patient from New Braunfels. Beyond food tasting, the event includes cultural pageants for young girls and senior women, live music performances, and engaging activities for children, making it a day of community spirit and cultural celebration.

The Cinco de Mayo Menudo Throwdown begins early in the morning, inviting participants to skip breakfast and indulge in traditional dishes like menudo, fideo loco, borracho beans, and carne guisada. Attendees not only get to enjoy these flavors but also participate as public judges who determine cash prize winners through their votes. Public tasting starts at 11 a.m., where $5 sampling packs offer five cups of various delicacies. Entertainment kicks off with DJ Julius at 9 a.m., followed by a lively performance from San Marcos High School's Mariachi Nuevo Cascabel at 10 a.m.

Apart from food and music, the event features competitive highlights such as a burrito-eating challenge starting at 3:30 p.m., offering a first-place prize of $100. For those interested in pageantry, two contests provide platforms for different age groups. The Little Miss Chiquita pageant invites girls aged 7-11 to showcase their charm, beginning at 11 a.m., while Ms. Senora Cinco De Mayo offers an opportunity for women aged 65+ to celebrate elegance and grace, commencing at 12:30 p.m. Both events emphasize cultural pride and community involvement.

Richard Anzaldua, the founder of this initiative, has dedicated years to organizing similar cook-off events across the Hill Country. His motivation stems from personal tragedy—the loss of his grandson Eli to leukemia at six years old—inspiring him to establish the Menudo Throwdown as a tribute. Anzaldua emphasizes that the support extends beyond financial aid, incorporating spiritual elements like moments of silence led by a pastor, uniting attendees in prayer for affected families.

This year marks the fourth iteration of the Cinco de Mayo Menudo Throwdown, highlighting the importance of inclusivity for all age groups. Special attention is given to ensuring children have ample entertainment through designated vendors and free specialty menus. Additionally, the inclusion of the Ms. Senora Cinco De Mayo pageant reflects Anzaldua's commitment to involving seniors, inspired by his late mother’s request.

Behind the success of this event lies a dedicated team comprising family members and friends, including Marisol Anzaluda, Frank Cantu, Deanna Ruiz, Steve Ruiz, Monica De La Rosa, Andrew Zamora, and Leroy Galindo. Their collective efforts ensure that the Hill Country Cookoff Association continues its mission of creating impactful change within the community.

Through a blend of gastronomy, charity, and cultural festivities, the Cinco de Mayo Menudo Throwdown exemplifies how tradition can unite people for a noble cause. Participants are encouraged to follow updates via the association’s Instagram (@hillcountrycookoffassociation) or Facebook group (Hill Country BBQ Cook-Off Association), ensuring they remain connected to this remarkable celebration of life and community.