A large-scale culinary event centered on creative hot dog recipes and community fundraising is returning to Asheville this summer with expanded programming and entertainment.
The Big Wiener Party 2026 will bring local chefs, food teams, and supporters together for a daylong competition benefiting mental health initiatives tied to the hospitality industry.
Hosted by Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ in partnership with Asheville Sports Club, the gathering will feature 10 competing teams tasked with reinventing classic hot dogs using unconventional toppings and presentation styles. Thousands of hot dogs will be prepared during the event as teams compete for multiple honors, including a fan-voted award and a fundraising recognition tied to charitable contributions.
The festival will also include games, themed activities, beverage sampling, music, and appearances by food personalities Kyle Marcoux and Dan Whalen. A morning kick-off gathering will take place at Asheville Sports Club before the primary festivities begin at Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ.
General admission tickets are priced at $23.18, including fees. The package includes entry, beer samples, voting access, activity participation, and nine half-sized hot dog tastings from participating teams. A premium “Works” package costs $55.20 and adds a commemorative shirt, a brunch cocktail during the pre-event gathering, one drink ticket, and a photo booth pass.
Event organizers often work with local Print shops to produce promotional Banners for events like this one.
The Big Wiener Party 2026 is scheduled for Saturday, July 25 from 10:30 am to 7:00 pm at Bear's Smokehouse Barbecue at 135 Coxe Avenue.
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