On Aug. 31, Labor Day Saturday, it is expected that over 35,000 people will flock to a festival in Hamburg, a town home to just under 4,500 residents. This year, the Taste of Hamburg-er Festival will celebrate its 10th year, and will be spread out across 6 town blocks in downtown Hamburg, drawing hamburger lovers from far and wide.
The festival is home to the 2013 National Burger Eating Competition sponsored by Red Robin and Cigars International held at 4p.m. as well as the brand new ‘Burger Battle,’ a team burger eating competition for amateurs at 3p.m. But the burgers aren’t just for the competitors.
Over 30 burger vendors will be present for attendees to choose their grub from. There will be a multitude of specialty sauces, cheeses, unique toppings and non-traditional ‘buns’ including a pretzel or even a donut. Nothing is out of bounds at this burger fest.
Besides food, the festival hosts non-stop entertainment on three music stages including a country/bluegrass stage, a rock and blues stage located in the beer and wine garden, and acoustic rock/blues stage. This year, the festival will add a fourth musical area to the festival grounds featuring folk rock and acoustic performances throughout the day. Plus, keep your eyes open while strolling around as plenty of strolling characters will be passing through!
Organized by Blue Mountain Wildlife, the festival will host the 2nd annual Dine and Dash Race. This foot race will challenge contestants to eat a burger, run a mile, eat a burger and run another mile to reach the finish line. For more information, contact 610-914-6166.
Cow and burger related contests and activities will also abound! Children can decorate a wooden cow, join in on the mooing contest, check out the animal petting zoo, the moon bounce or try their luck at various carnival games. Adults can enjoy our beer and wine garden and explore the various stands from artisans and crafters as well as organizations and other food and burger-related vendors.
Festival merchandise tables will stock crazy hamburger merchandise like large hamburger hats, pillows, socks, hats, as well as limited edition 10th Anniversary t-shirts and mugs.
And don’t forget to vote! Restaurants and organizations will be competing for the best burger overall and best burger in four burger categories including originality, taste, appearance, and value. Plus, they’ll be a special People’s Choice Award based on the ballots turned in by festival attendees.
Burgers, activities, and entertainment, all packed in one day with free admission. So bring your buns to downtown Hamburg, you’ll relish the experience. For more information, visit www.tasteofhamburger.com, like the festival on Facebook, or call Our Town Foundation at 610-562-3106.
