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Coney Island Hot Dog Eating Contest

Every July 4, the eyes of the world focus on Coney Island, NY, for the Nathan's Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest.

The holiday event, which is open to the public and which is sanctioned by the International Federation of Competitive eating, takes place at Nathan's Famous on the corner of Surf and Stillwell avenues in Coney Island, Brooklyn.

With an expected audience of 50,000 every year, those seeking good viewing are advised to arrive before 11 am. (For more information, call the IFOCE at (212) 627-5766.)

The Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest has been held at Nathan's Famous on the corner of Surf and Stillwell avenues in Coney Island each year since 1916

At noon each July 4th, a group of 20 steely-eyed individuals line up behind a 40-foot table to begin the 12-minute contest. These competitors, known in the sport of competitive eating as "gurgitators", may not appear athletic to the untrained eye. However, they are among the finest athletes - with the quickest jaws! - in the world.

Joey Chestnut, Current World Hot Dog Eating Champ

Joey Chestnut of San Jose, California, is the latest champion to win the Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest, beating former champion Takeru Kobayashi and setting a new world record in 2009 by downing 68 Nathan’s Famous hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes. It was Chestnut's third consecutive win in recent years.

“Nothing represents summer and the Fourth of July like the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog-Eating Contest,” says Wayne Norbitz, president and COO of Nathan’s Famous. “This year our nation has new hope for glory.”

Vying for the Belt

The bejeweled Coveted Mustard Yellow International Belt, worn only by the International Champion, is to hot dog aficionados what Faberge Eggs were to Czar Nicholas. The belt is of unknown age and value, and is unveiled only at the annual contest.

Registration for the Nathan's Famous July 4th International Hot Dog Eating Contest is administered by the International Federation of Competitive Eating. To sign up, participants 18 years and over can visit www.NathansFamous.com.

also see -> July 4 Independence Day Events

Coney Island Mermaid Parade

also see in Beaches -> New York City Beaches