Maine Red Hot Dog Festival 2026: What to Know This Weekend

For one glorious day, Dexter, Maine, transforms into the red hot dog capital of the world!

The 10th Annual Maine Red Hot Dog Festival is a Dexter Revitalization Committee fundraiser created to bring thousands of visitors to town to experience everything Dexter has to offer, and enjoy a full day of food, fun, and summer memories.

The festival takes place rain or shine on Saturday, August 8, from 10am to 6pm, in Downtown Dexter. It’s the perfect summer road trip to celebrate the “dog days” of summer. (See what we did there?)

Maine’s famous red snapper hot dogs are the star of the show. Known for their bright red color and natural casing, these classic Maine favorites are a backyard barbecue staple. Picture one tucked into a toasted split-top bun — it’s basically the taste of summer in Maine.

And yes, for the record, it’s perfectly acceptable to enjoy your red snapper with both mustard and ketchup.

Admission is free, and there are plenty of activities for the whole family, including:

The 5K Bun Run
Food vendors
Crafts and local vendors
Beer and wine tents
The Hannaford Hot Dog Eating Contest
A Children’s Pie Eating Contest
Inflatable obstacle courses
A Kid Zone with games and prizes
Four Red Hot Stages featuring live entertainment all day

Maine Red Hot Dog Festival: What to Know Before You Go

1. When and where
The festival takes place annually on the second Saturday in August in downtown Dexter, Maine. This year’s event runs Saturday, August 8, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

2. Admission is free
There’s no cost to attend — just show up and enjoy a full day of food, entertainment, and activities.

3. Maine red snappers are the main attraction
These iconic red hot dogs are the reason everyone comes. Expect plenty of chances to enjoy this classic Maine favorite.

4. Vendor Village has something for everyone
Visitors can browse more than 100 vendors featuring food trucks, crafts, local artisans, children’s activities, beer and wine tents, and more.

5. It supports the Dexter community
Organized by the Dexter Development Association (formerly the Revitalization Committee), festival proceeds help fund downtown improvements and local projects.

6. Expect a crowd
The festival attracts an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 visitors, making it one of Maine’s most popular summer celebrations.

For more information about the Maine Red Hot Dog Festival, visit their official website.