Who’s hungry?! Summer is around the corner, and many people love to celebrate the warmer weather with some serious eats. But for some gluttonously talented individuals, their bellies — and their egos — will remain just a little bit unsatisfied. That’s where eating contests come in.

Whether you’re taking a Memorial Day weekend trip or a summer sojourn around the country, viewing or partaking in a eating contest is always a good time — that is, if you don’t mind the indigestion. No matter which U.S. city you’ll be visiting this time of year, there are a variety of fun, wacky, and downright weird eating contests from which you can choose.

We’ve rounded up some of the most ambitious food eating contests across the country that you won’t want to miss. Dig in!

Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest — Coney Island, New York

Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest by Edward M Johnson licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Every Fourth of July, the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest transforms New York City‘s Coney Island into a scene of competitive eating glory. This legendary event, a tradition since 1916, draws thousands of spectators and millions of viewers on TV, all eager to witness contestants devour as many hot dogs and buns as possible in just 10 minutes.

The Nathan’s event is widely regarded as the premier eating contest in the world, attracting nearly 40,000 attendees every year. Joey Chestnut is the undisputed historic winner in this competition: his personal record is 62 hot dogs in one sitting! After the festivities, cap your day off by riding the world-famous Cyclone roller coaster at Luna Park or head to the arcade for some classic American fun.

Kids Cherry Pie Eating Contest — Traverse City, Michigan

Kids will love diving into the cherry pie at this one-of-a-kind Michigan event held in the popular tourist town of Traverse City. The annual Kids Cherry Pie Eating Contest typically happens during the days leading up to and around the Fourth of July. Kids from ages 3 to 12 can participate in this fun-filled activity. With their hands behind their backs, kids race to finish their pies, giggling and smeared with cherry filling. The event, set in the picturesque F & M Park, offers a wholesome, family-friendly atmosphere in which everyone can enjoy the sweetness of summer and local tradition.

As a bonus, Traverse City’s beautiful weather and outdoor activities make it a great destination for a festive Fourth of July getaway. To burn off that sugar rush, take your kids to Lake Michigan to kayak or collect rocks.

Buffalo Wing Festival — Buffalo, New York

48-IMG_8506 by LegendLarrys licensed under CC by 2.0

Get ready to wing it at the World Championship Buffalo Wing Eating Contest, a fiery and flavorful showdown that takes place during the National Buffalo Wing Festival in Buffalo, New York. Held every Labor Day weekend, this contest draws competitive eaters from around the globe, all eager to prove their prowess by devouring as many spicy wings as they can within a set time limit.

The event is a sizzling spectacle of speed and stamina, as participants tear through mountains of wings, their faces smeared with hot sauce and determination. With a lively crowd cheering them on and the aroma of tangy buffalo sauce in the air, the atmosphere is electric. Whether you’re a die-hard wing enthusiast or just love a good culinary challenge, the World Championship Buffalo Wing Eating Contest is a must-see event that celebrates Buffalo’s most famous culinary creation in the most deliciously daring way possible.

Jack’s Donuts World Donut Hole Eating Championship — New Castle, Indiana

Every May, the town of New Castle, Indiana becomes the epicenter of sweet, competitive fun with the Jack’s Donuts World Donut Hole Eating Contest. This high-energy contest challenges participants to devour as many donut holes as they can in just eight minutes. Both amateur eaters and seasoned pros, including the legendary Joey Chestnut, have tackled this tasty challenge. Despite being a relatively new addition to the competitive eating scene, this championship has quickly become a beloved tradition.

After you enjoy the contest, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. You can explore the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame, which celebrates the state’s basketball history with exhibits and memorabilia. For outdoor enthusiasts, Westwood Park offers hiking, fishing, and scenic picnicking opportunities.

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Ultimate Bologna Showdown — Knoxville, Tennessee

This quirky Tennessee competition challenges contestants to consume as many bologna sandwiches as they can within the allotted time. The Ultimate Bologna Showdown is part of a larger festival celebrating bologna, which includes a variety of activities, live music, and food-related fun. The contest occurs at the RecSports Field Complex, where you can enjoy the lively scene and cheer on the eaters, all while sampling various bologna-inspired dishes and gourmet bites from Dead End BBQ.

Once you’ve eaten your weight in meat, there’s plenty more to enjoy in Knoxville, Tennessee. Explore the scenic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with its hiking trails and breathtaking views. Or, check out the Knoxville Zoo, perfect for a family outing. Don’t miss the historic Market Square, where you can catch live music and local events.

FAQs:

Q: Are there any entry fees for participating in these eating contests?
A: Entry fees vary by event. Some contests are free to enter, while others may require a registration fee. Check the event’s website for specific details.

Q: Can spectators attend these events for free?
A: Spectator policies differ by event. Many are free to attend, but some larger festivals may charge an admission fee. Always verify with the event organizers.

Q: Are these events family-friendly?
A: Yes, most eating contests are family-friendly and offer additional activities and entertainment suitable for all ages.

Q: How can I register to compete in an eating contest?
A: Registration details are typically available on the event’s official website. Some contests allow online registration, while others may require you to sign up in person.

Q: What are the typical rules for participating in an eating contest?
A: Rules vary, but generally include time limits, specific food quantities, and safety guidelines. Check the event’s website for detailed rules and regulations.

Q: What should I bring if I’m attending an eating contest as a spectator?
A: Bring essentials like sunscreen, water, a hat, and comfortable clothing. If allowed, consider bringing a chair or blanket for seating. Always check the event guidelines for specific items.

Know of any other eating contests we should chomp our way through? Share them with us in the comments.