Looking for one of the best food festivals in Chicago this summer? Mark your calendar for the Fourth Annual Windy City Hot Dog Fest, happening May 30–June 1, 2025, in Chicago’s Portage Park neighborhood. This year, the popular event expands to three full days of mouthwatering hot dogs, live music, local vendors, and family-friendly fun!

🌭 What is the Windy City Hot Dog Fest?

Hosted by the Six Corners Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Vienna Beef, the Windy City Hot Dog Fest 2025 celebrates the Windy City’s most iconic street food. Whether you’re a purist who insists on mustard only or you dare to top your dog with ketchup (gasp!), this event is for hot dog lovers of all kinds.

📍 Festival Location and Dates

Location: 4000 N. Milwaukee Avenue, between Cuyler Ave. and Irving Park Rd.

Dates & Times:

Friday, May 30 – 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Saturday, May 31 – Noon to 10:00 p.m.

Sunday, June 1 – Noon to 10:00 p.m.

• Live music from local and regional performers on the main stage
• A Kids’ Area with activities and games
• Local artisan vendors including Polar Bare Bath (handmade soaps), Lil Bird Kitchens (jarred relishes), and Papa Caps Foods (hot sauces)
• The Top Dog Parade on Sunday at 12:00 p.m. – Bring your pup and join the fun!

🌭 Chicago’s Top Hot Dog Vendors Compete for “Top Dog” Title

Nine of Chicagoland’s top hot dog vendors will be serving up their unique takes on the classic dog—all competing for the coveted Top Dog Award. Festival-goers can sample from:

Chicago’s Dog House

Byron’s Hot Dogs

J’s Bacon Hot Dogs

Baked Cheese Haus

Bust Outs

Sausage Fest Food Truck

Frannie’s Cafe

Tandoor Char House

You get to vote for your favorite vendor!

🌶️ New & Unique Hot Dog Creations

This year’s hot dog innovations include the fiery Clifford the Big Red Dog from Chicago’s Dog House—a jumbo quarter-pound hot dog topped with Flamin’ Hot Cheetos and melted cheese. Craving a Mexican twist? Try the Sonora-style bacon-wrapped hot dogs from J’s Bacon Hot Dogs.

🌭 Hot Dog Eating Contest

Think you’ve got what it takes to be the ultimate hot dog fan? Join the Hot Dog Eating Contest on Saturday, May 31 at 3:30 p.m. Only five participants will compete in this five-minute challenge. Register in advance at windycityhotdogfest.com or on-site (if spots are available). Bragging rights included!

Whether you’re a Chicago foodie, a hot dog enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun summer festival in Chicago, this is the perfect event to kick off your June. Bring your appetite, your family, and even your dog for a celebration of all things hot dog!

Plan your visit now at windycityhotdogfest.com and follow along on social media for vendor updates and entertainment schedules.

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