Leander Residents Embark On 12-Hour Camp-out For Free Chick-Fil-A

AUSTIN, TX — About 150 residents vying to win a year's worth of free food had camped out at the site of the city's first such Chick-fil-A restaurant on Tuesday evening a day ahead of its grand opening.

The camp-out for eligible residents is the first of two in the area, with another Chick-fil-A opening in Hutto taking place within 24 hours of the Leander site. As part of the pre-opening promotion, franchise operators have offered the first 100 people in line before the grand opening a year's worth of free food.

"They are ready to stare down any weather curve balls Mother Nature may throw their way for the next 12 hours as they try to win one of the free year supplies of Chick-fil-A being awarded to the first 100 in line," company officials said.

Related story: Leander Chick-fil-A Grand Opening Scheduled

Once the drawing and registration is complete, organizers said, participants with their tents set up will be treated to dinner, games and dancing to help pass the time. Come Wednesday morning, the Chick-fil-A cow was scheduled to lead the winners in a conga line (cownga?) to receive their year supplies around 5:45 a.m.

Aside from the fun and anticipation, the event also features a philanthropic side. To help celebrate the grand opening, Leander Chick-fil-A franchise operator Priscilla Mendoza has organized a food drive at the new location to help stock the shelves of a local food bank. On May 15 during opening hours, guests who bring in at least three non-expired, non-perishable food items will receive a card (one per family) for a free breakfast entree to thank them for their donations.

Priscilla Mendoza (Chick-fil-A)

Twelve hours after the Leander Chick-fil-A opening, another camp-out will will take place in Hutto ahead of that opening. The camp-out there starts at 6 p.m.

Celebrating 40 years since its first Austin opening, the two restaurants are part of the chain's continued growth and reinvestment in the metro Austin area, company officials said.