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Move over Timothée Chalamet, JFK, Jr. and Pedro Pascal. A new celebrity lookalike contest is for the redheads, and the winner gets more than just doppelganger cred.
In honor of World Redhead Day on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, Wendy’s is celebrating its redheaded roots by hosting an official Wendy look-alike contest in New York City. The fast-food giant is calling on anyone 18 and older to head over to Seaport Square—a location choice that playfully nods to the chain’s famous square burgers—to show off their flaming red hair and best Wendy looks.
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The brand is looking for anyone who can channel the spirit of its iconic mascot. Contestants are encouraged to show up in their best Wendy attire, with pigtails, freckles and the iconic blue and white collared dress. Both natural hues and wigs are welcome.
The competition will unfold across three high-stakes rounds, starting with a classic stage walk showcasing each contestant's best Wendy look. The next round will feature a reading of a custom, social media-worthy post channeling the brand’s famously witty and savage online persona ahead of National Hamburger Day. The final showdown involves the top 3–5 finalists performing an original, Wendy’s-style commercial.
The stakes are high for the sea of redheads expected to attend. While the event will feature live music, giveaways and photo ops, the grand prize winner will walk away with free Dave’s Single hamburgers for a year.
Redheads make up just 1% to 4% of the U.S. population, but Wendy's wants to celebrate their unforgettable, bold energy. Check-in for the contest begins at 3:30pm at Seaport Square, with the main event running from 4:15pm to 5:30pm.
What: Wendy's Lookalike Contest
When: Tuesday, May 26, 3:30-5:30pm
Where: Seaport Square, 19 Fulton St.