Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest Qualifier - Lake Compounce, Bristol, CT

Location: Lake Compounce, Bristol, CT
Date: 06-13-2026

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The Road To Coney Starts Here!

As America gears up to celebrate its 250th anniversary this summer, there’s no better time to honor the traditions, spectacle, and competitive spirit that define our nation’s most iconic holiday. The Road to Coney Island begins once again in a place where American history and summertime thrills have gone hand in hand for generations.

Nestled in Bristol, Connecticut, Lake Compounce, America’s First Amusement Park, sets the stage for the opening qualifier of the 2026 season as it celebrates an incredible 180 years. With nearly two centuries of memories behind it, this iconic destination becomes the launching point for a new chapter in competitive eating history.

Each year, elite eaters from across the globe gather with one goal in mind: to earn their place on the biggest stage of all, in Brooklyn on the Fourth of July. The journey starts here, where challengers will go head-to-head, pushing their limits in pursuit of glory, pride, and a coveted spot at the Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog Eating Championship.

In a contest where tradition meets tenacity, one male and one female champion will rise above the rest—etching their names into the sport’s evolving legacy and securing their ticket to Coney Island.

Do you have what it takes to stand among the greats? The discipline. The drive. The hunger. This is your moment to step forward, make your mark, and become part of an American tradition unlike any other.

Sign up, show up, and take your first bite out of history.

This contest will take place at 2PM Eastern on Saturday, June 13th, 2026 at Lake Compounce Amusement & Water Park, 185 Enterprise Dr., Bristol, CT 06010

About Nathan's Famous, Inc.
Nathan’s Famous, Inc. (NASDAQ: NATH) is a Russell 2000 Company that currently distributes its products in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and 21 foreign countries through its product licensing activities, foodservice sales programs, and restaurant system. For additional information about Nathan’s, please visit our website at www.nathansfamous.com.

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*All applicants must be 18 years of age or older and fully acknowledge and understand the inherent dangers and risks associated with participating in an eating contest. The applicant further acknowledges and understands that the MLE/IFOCE coordinates with event sponsor(s) to select and approve eligible participants, and that the MLE/IFOCE shall decide, at its sole discretion, whether an applicant is eligible to participate in any eating event, and/or related activities. The MLE/IFOCE may revoke an applicant's eligibility to participate in the eating contest, or related activities, at any time, for any reason, at its sole discretion. The MLE/IFOCE and the event sponsors reserve the right, at any time, to change any and all details concerning the event, including, e.g., time, duration, location and prize structure.