Five boys and a food truck, PG family kicks off The spring season

On any given day, during food truck season, Kate Ames Hawley might be packing school lunches, coordinating five young boys—all under the age of 10—and prepping for a full day of service on the Baller Food Truck.

It’s a balancing act that has defined the past six years.

This weekend, Chef Kate and her family are kicking off another season of Baller Food Truck with a grand opening day at the Hunniford Gardens Easter Carrot Patch event, marking not just a business milestone, but a continuation of a family-built journey rooted in resilience, hustle and community.

“Some days it’s chaos,” Chef Kate said with a laugh. “You’re loading the truck while making sure everyone has what they need for the day. But this is what we’ve built together—it’s our life, and we’re really proud of it.”

That family energy often spills right into the customer experience.

On a busy service day, one of her sons, Elias, has been known to slip into the role of a polite English butler, greeting customers with an exaggerated accent and formal charm. Meanwhile, younger brother Finnigan eagerly jumps into conversations mid-order with “and then, and then…”—often even asking customers, without hesitation, if they were planning to tip. And when Dad is working the till, you may just catch a Baller Food Dad joke or two.

“It definitely keeps things interesting,” Chef Kate said. “People don’t just come for the food—they remember those moments.”

What began as a grassroots venture—complete with scrappy pop-ups and creative street-level marketing—has grown into a recognizable name in Prince George’s food scene. Known for bold, indulgent comfort food and generous portions, Baller Food Truck has built a loyal following across the region.

But behind the menu is a story of long days, late nights and a family growing alongside the business.

“There were times in the early years where we were just figuring it out as we went,” said Chef Kate. “You learn to adapt quickly—whether it’s with the truck, the business, or at home with five kids. It’s all connected.”

Kicking off the season at a family-focused event like Hunniford Gardens feels especially fitting. The Easter Carrot Patch draws families from across the community—something Ames says mirrors the heart of Baller Food itself.

“We’ve always wanted this to be more than just food,” she said. “It’s about showing up, being part of the community, and creating something our kids can grow up around and be proud of. Having opening day this season is a full circle moment for us. Considering we used to vend here from just a tent and table.”

Following Saturday’s opening, the momentum continues with a trip to Vanderhoof on Easter Monday, bringing Baller Food’s signature dishes to neighbouring communities and reconnecting with customers beyond Prince George.

Now entering its sixth year, the business has expanded beyond street service to include buffet-style and grazing table catering, drop-and-go delivery orders, wholesale products for local retailers and soon you’ll be able to visit the Baller Food Truck Farm Stand out in Buckhorn offering all your favourite Baller Food products and freezer meals. But even with everything we’ve got going on, the core remains unchanged: a family-run operation built on hard work, connection and a love of good food.

Grand Opening Details: Easter Carrot Patch Event

📍 Hunniford Gardens, Prince George, B.C.

📅 Saturday, [April 5th] 10-3pm

Easter Monday Pop-Up:

📍 Nechako Exhibition Grounds, Vanderhoof, B.C.

📅 Monday, [April 6th] 11-3pm

Baller Food Truck will continue to share monthly locations, menu features and event updates through its social media channels. @ballerfoodcanada