Established by the NLBM in partnership with Hy-Vee in 2013, the Heart of America Hotdog Festival celebrates the historical connection between our national pastime and the all-American hot dog has become one of the most highly anticipated festivals in the region. Since its inception, the family festival has attracted thousands of hotdog lovers to the Historic 18th & Vine District.

In recognition of the 100th anniversary of the Kansas City Monarchs winning the inaugural 1924 Negro League World Series, the NLBM is bringing back two scrumptious signature hotdogs that will be featured at the festival. “The Monarch,” features an Oscar Mayer beef hot dog topped with pulled pork, cheddar cheese, red onions, bacon, and jalapenos and then drizzled with Gates BBQ “Sweet & Mild” BBQ Sauce. “The Bullet Joe,” inspired by Monarchs Hall of Fame pitcher, Wilbur “Bullet” Rogan, one of the stars of the 1924 World Series, features an Oscar Mayer beef hotdog topped with brisket, baked beans, cheddar/jack cheese, BBQ sauce and topped Fried Onions. A limited number of the specialty dogs will be available at the festival.

Festival goers can also build their own hotdog creations at the massive toppings station which features an assortment of spreads and other garnishes. The NLBM announced Oscar Mayer as the “Official Hotdog” of the event which will include an appearance by the famed Oscar Meyer Wienermobile. In addition, an assortment of ballpark favorites along with various Food trucks will offer a variety of delectable food options. The NLBM will be open the day of the festival from 10:00 AM -5:00 PM and festival ticket holders receive free museum admission.

“We’re thrilled to bring the Hotdog Festival back to Historic 18th & Vine,” said Bob Kendrick, NLBM President. “While ballpark foods have become more sophisticated over recent years, baseball fans still relish the hotdog. The Heart of America Hot Dog Festival unites fans around that common bond in a fun and entertaining celebration. It has been tremendously gratifying to see this event grow to become one of the most highly anticipated outdoor music festivals in Kansas City,” Kendrick said.

The groovin music lineup is headlined by Billboard chart-topping artist, Stokley. One of the great voices of R&B, the lead singer of the legendary group, Mint Condition, has been delighting audiences with his solo performances. Other live band acts include: Jass, The Dazz Band, Brownstone, Jonathan Butler, and Midnight Star.

Festival gates open at 3:00 PM with live band performances beginning at 3:30 PM. Special advance General Admission tickets cost only $35 (through Monday, July 15); $50 at the Gate for adults and $10 for kids. A limited number of VIP tickets are available and cost $125 (Includes premium VIP seating, festival gift, 2 complimentary hotdog, 2 complimentary cocktails, 1 complimentary bottle of water; access to VIP Bar).

Source: Negro Leagues Baseball Museum