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12 facts you didn’t know about Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest
There is so much more to know about the century-old Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest than you realize
Hold on to your guts—Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest 2024 is upon us!
We can all agree that there’s nothing better than going to a baseball game or one of the best NYC parks for a cookout and eating one-too-many hot dogs, right? Well, the gluttonous act has reached the big leagues in New York, as over 40,000 tune in during Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest at Coney Island, NY.
During the competition—which is now more than 100 years old—Frankfurter-eating legends race the clock and chow down on as many Nathan’s Famous dogs and buns they can swallow in ten minutes. It’s certainly one of the most beloved traditions and best NYC events for July 4, so here’s everything you need to know about watching and entering the competition. You won’t want to miss a single bite.
What is Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest?
Okay, you might question the amount of athleticism needed to swallow a bunch of wieners, but Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest is one of the most unique sporting competitions in the world—you can even watch the race live on ESPN! Folks will gather to watch the top female and male eaters try to swallow as many Franks as possible within ten minutes. The prize (apart from a free meal)? Eternal glory, and a $10,000 prize purse containing a big shiny trophy and a bejeweled Mustard Belt.
When is Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest?
The race of legends goes down on Independence Day (Thursday, July 4) from 11am to 1pm.
Where is Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest?
Watch the glorious event at Nathan’s Flagship restaurant (1310 Surf Ave.) on the corner of Stillwell Ave at Coney Island, Brooklyn.
Who is competing in Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest?
The competitors haven't been announced yet, but there's one thing we know for sure: Icon and fan favorite Joey Chestnut won't be competing. He struck a deal with plant-based food company Impossible Foods (a rival to Nathan's), which got him barred from this year's contest, CNN reported. If he wants to compete again, he'll have to renounce any other brand deals in favor of Nathan's.
Here are the stats on last year's winners:
In 2023, Joey Chestnut trounced the competition by housing 62 hot dogs and buns, winning his 16th Mustard Belt. In the women's division, Miki Sudo holds the women’s world record of 48.5 Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs in 10 minutes. She won her ninth title on July 4, 2023 with 39.5 hot dogs and buns eaten.
What is the schedule for Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest?
Though the 2024 schedule hasn't been announced, this is typically how it goes down:
10am: Pre-show festivities, including musical and dance performances
11am: Women’s Contest
12:30pm: Men’s Contest
How can I participate in Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest?
You have to register for the Nathan’s Famous qualifying event. The top male and female finishers will secure their spot to complete in the Nathan's Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest at Coney Island. For more information on how to register, visit the Major League Eating website to sign up.
How do I get to Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest?
Via subway: D, F, N, Q to Stillwell Avenue Station.
Via Manhattan Express Bus: X28 (Bensonhurst/Midtown), X38 (Bensonhurst/Midtown).
What TV channel is airing Nathan's hot dog eating contest?
If you can't make it in person, ESPN broadcasts the festivities.
What else is going on at Coney Island for July 4?
Make a day of it and head to the beach after the competition. Stick around until the evening to catch the Coney Island fireworks show.
