2025 Maine Red Hot Dog Festival: Food, Fun & Free Admission!

Get Your Buns to Dexter! The Red Hot Dog Festival Is Back!

Hot diggity dog! Another great day of food & fun is coming to Dexter, next month.

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

The 9th Annual Maine Red Hot Dog Festival is a Dexter Revitalization Committee fundraiser designed to attract a large number of people to see all that Dexter has to offer, and to have a great time!

It takes place, rain or shine, on Saturday, August 9th, from 10am-5pm in Downtown Dexter.

This is a perfect road trip to enjoy the "dog days" of summer! See what we did there...

Known for their vibrant red color and natural casing Maine's red snapper hot dogs are a must for any backyard barbecue. Just thinking about one now with a toasted split hot dog roll, gives you not only the munchies, but all the summertime feels too.

And for the record, It's ok to like both mustard AND ketchup on your hot dog.

Admission is free, and there are a ton of activities that the whole family can enjoy:

Here are some things to "know before you go"

1. When & Where
Held annually on the second Saturday in August, this year’s edition is Saturday, August 9th, from 10 AM to 5 PM in downtown Dexter, Maine

2. How much does it cost?
Entry is completely free—just show up and enjoy!

3. Maine Red Snappers are the star of the show!
The event celebrates iconic bright‑red Maine hot dogs, aka red snappers, made famous by W.A. Bean & Sons since 1918—known for their signature “snap” and vivid color

4. Vendor Village
Expect 100+ vendors, including food trucks, craft dealers, local artisans, beer & wine tents, children’s games, and even a magician!

5. It is a community booster
Organized by the Dexter Development Association, proceeds support downtown improvements and fund local projects

6. It will be busy!
The festival draws roughly 5,000–7,000 visitors, making it one of Maine’s most popular summer festivals

For more on this fun event, check out their website