The Big Wiener Party Hits Asheville’s South Slope – 9 Teams, 2,700 Hot Dogs, 1 Royal Wiener
Asheville is about to crown a new culinary monarch — and this will be no ordinary coronation.
On Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 2 to 6 PM, Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ and the Asheville Comedy Festival will team up to throw the city’s most outrageous food competition: The Big Wiener Party.
Nine fearless teams. 2,700 hot dogs. One title to rule them all: King or Queen Wiener.
Who’s Running the Show
This mashup of flavor, flair, and entertainment will be hosted by two internet-famous food personalities:
Kyle “The Vulgar Chef” Marcoux
Dan “The Food In My Beard” Whalen
While the crowd cheers them on, nine daring teams will each prepare 300 hot dogs piled high with the most creative and crave-worthy toppings imaginable.
The Teams Battling for Wiener Glory
The Sportsocracy
Hi-Wire Brewing
Wicked Weed Brewing
Asheville Sports Club
Capella on 9
Knuckle Deep BBQ
PIE.ZAA
The Vault
Infill D
The Judging Panel
An Asheville-perfect mix of culinary experts, entertainment pros, and local personalities will decide who wears the crown.
Kyle “The Vulgar Chef” Marcoux (Host)
Dan “The Food In My Beard” Whalen (Host)
DJ Jeremy Greene (iHeartMedia, The Sportsocracy)
Todd Lewis (Front of House Engineer for Luke Combs)
Stu Helm (Asheville’s own food blogging icon)
Comedy Meets Culinary
As each team presents its hot dog creation, comedians from the Asheville Comedy Festival will keep the energy high with live commentary and playful roasting. Think Iron Chef meets a comedy roast — only with a lot more mustard.
The After Party
When the judging wraps up, the fun doesn’t stop. Hi-Wire Brewing will keep the beer flowing, and the celebration will roll right into a local DJ set and a late-night menu designed by The Vulgar Chef.
A Cause Worth Biting Into
This party has purpose. Proceeds benefit Bear’s Foundation’s mental health initiative, Linked4Life, which funds free mental health counseling for Asheville’s food and beverage workers through All Souls Counseling Center.
How to Join the Fun
One ticket includes:
Entry to The Big Wiener Party
Nine half-hot dogs (one from each team)
Beer sampling from Hi-Wire Brewing
A ballot to vote for the People’s Choice Award
Kids under 10 can enjoy a half hot dog for just $3, available for purchase at the event.
Event Details at a Glance
When: Saturday, August 9, 2025 | 2 – 6 PM
Where: Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ, South Slope, Asheville
Tickets: Includes food, beer samples, and voting rights
After Party: DJ set and late-night menu
Come hungry, come curious, and get ready for bold flavors, big laughs, and fierce competition. The Big Wiener Party is set to be Asheville’s most unforgettable summer event.