Week long festival starts Saturday April 18 with “Mxmtoon” with opener “The Corsairs”
Thursday April 23rd is the “Dogwood Derby”
Friday April 24th is the “After Dark Dash”
From Alfred Hot Dog Day,
ALFRED, NY — Alfred Hot Dog Day returns for its 54th year, bringing a beloved tradition of community, creativity, and celebration to the Village of Alfred. Jointly hosted by Alfred University and Alfred State College, this year’s festival promises a dynamic lineup of events for students, residents, and visitors alike.
The weeklong celebration kicks off on Saturday, April 18 with the Large Act Concert at the McLane Center Gym on Alfred University’s campus. Headlining this year’s show is indie-pop artist mxmtoon, with opening performance by The Corsairs. The concert begins at 6:00 PM. Tickets will be available at the door for $20 for the general public and $10 for students. Attendees should note that no outside food or beverages or bags will be permitted, and all guests will be subject to security screening upon entry.
Festival programming continues throughout the week with a variety of engaging and community-centered events:
Thursday, April 23: Alfred State will host the 3rd Annual Dog Wood Derby Race at 6:30 PM in the Student Leadership Center. Car building kits can be picked up at the Student Activities offices at AU or ASC on weekdays from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.
Friday, April 24: the After Dark Dash – 5k Glow Run, hosted by the Alfred University Wellness Center, invites participants of all ages to light up the night for a great cause. Check-in begins at 7:00 PM at the Village Bandstand, with awards for Best Dressed at 7:45 PM and the race kicking off at 8:00 PM. Registration is $5 for students and $15 for community members, with all proceeds benefiting Allegany County Cancer Services.
Also on Friday, April 24, Alfred State College’s UJIMA will present its annual Fashion Show from 7:00–9:00 PM in the Orvis Auditorium. Later that evening, Alfred University’s Drag Club will host a Drag Show in Miller Theater starting at 8:30 PM, featuring performer Aria. This event is open to guests 18 and older.
Main Event: Saturday, April 25
The centerpiece of the celebration takes place on Saturday, April 25, as the Alfred Hot Dog Day festival fills Main Street, Alfred State College, and Alfred University with a full day of festivities.
The day begins with the fan-favorite Wiener Dog Races at 11:00 AM on the AU Brick Hall Lawn, where dogs of all breeds (with a soft spot for dachshunds) race for glory and crowd cheers.
At Noon, the Parade marches down Main Street, bringing together student organizations, community groups, and creative floats in a lively showcase of Alfred spirit.
Following the parade, the Vendor Fair opens along Main Street, featuring more than 40 student and community vendors, six food trucks, and plenty of classic hot dog stands offering festival favorites.
At 1:00 PM, the Carnival opens at the Alfred State College Student Leadership Center (Lot #3), offering free rides, games, and entertainment for all ages. The carnival area will also feature four food trucks and a live DJ performing from the SLC balcony, creating a high-energy atmosphere throughout the afternoon.
Festivalgoers can also visit merchandise booths at both Main Street and Alfred State College locations to pick up official Hot Dog Day gear and souvenirs.
Road & Parking Closures
To safely accommodate festival activities, several roadways and parking areas will be closed:
- Main Street will be closed beginning at 10:00 PM on Friday, April 24, from the traffic light through the Main Street/Church Street.
- Travelers passing through Alfred are encouraged to use detours:
- Around the Alfred University campus via Terrace Street or Pine Street
- Around the Alfred State College campus via West Pine Street or Waterwells Road (via Lake Road for those traveling from Wellsville or Jericho Hill)
Parking closures include:
- Community Bank Parking Lot and all Main Street parking closure begins Friday evening.
- Lots #3 and #4 (Student Leadership Center and 10 Elm lots) on the Alfred State campus beginning Wednesday at 4:30 PM.
- Jordan Hall and Binns-Merrill Lot on the Alfred University campus beginning Friday evening.
Attendees are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and follow posted signage and event staff directions throughout the weekend.
With a mix of music, performances, food, and community tradition, the 54th Annual Alfred Hot Dog Day Festival continues to be one of the region’s most anticipated events. Organizers encourage all to attend and experience a full day of fun in Alfred.
For more information and updates, please follow us on Facebook, Facebook.com/hotdogday, or Instagram, @alfredhotdogday.
