The Fourth of July brings fireworks, family, friends, and fun each summer, but it also showcases one of the nation's biggest competitions.

 

The Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating contest has been an annual staple of Independence Day, taking place on Coney Island each year since 1972. The contest draws over 40,000 fans each year and is broadcast on ESPN to nearly two million viewers.

 

16-time champion Joey Chestnut is once again the favorite this year, holding the record for most hot dogs eaten with 76 consumed in 2021.

 

Winners of the contest since the first recorded event in 1972 have eaten a total of 1,509 Nathan's Famous beef franks, which is approximately 330 pounds of meat.

 

This year's women's competition will begin around 10 a.m. CT, with the men's contest around 11:30 a.m. CT. The coverage can be found on ESPN.