Musky Fest isn’t complete without its classic eating contests. These fan-favorite events bring contestants of all ages together for some lighthearted competition and plenty of festival excitement. Whether you’re entering the challenge or watching from the sidelines, the Burger, Watermelon and Dilly Bar contests are always a highlight.  All competitions are FREE to participate!

Burger Eating Contest

Courtesy of Eddy’s on Third 

The Burger Eating Contest is a Musky Fest tradition that puts speed and appetite to the test! Contestants race to see who can finish the most burgers in 15-minutes while the crowd cheers them on!
Event Info: Friday, June 26, 2026 @ 4:14pm @ The Sevenwinds Casino Main Stage in Downtown Hayward (intersection of 2nd and Main St.)

Please register online in advance. Limited to 10 participants. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes awarded.
Prizes: Gift cards to Eddy’s on Third + bragging rights will be awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place contestants.

Competition Rules & Safety Measures

Eligibility: All ages eligible. Minors require parental consent. Registration: All participants must sign up before the event and provide signature. Health & Safety: Those with medical conditions will not be allowed to enter. Sportsmanship: No tampering with food, interfering with other contestants, or using outside substances to gain an advantage. Judging Panel: Official judges will oversee the contest, ensure fairness, and resolve disputes. Eating Method: Burgers must be consumed as served. Time Limit: Contestants have 15 minutes to eat as many full burgers as possible. Completion Criteria: Each burger must be fully swallowed before starting the next. No Last-Second Stuffing: Any food left in the mouth when time expires does not count toward the final tally. Disqualifications: Vomiting, excessive mess, or failure to adhere to competition rules will result in disqualification. Drink Access: Contestants can have water or a non-alcoholic beverage to assist with swallowing. Medical Support: Compete at your own risk. Medical support is not present. Emergency Stop: Judges may halt the contest if a participant shows signs of distress. Winner Determination: The contestant who eats the most fully completed burgers within the time limit wins. Media Coverage: Contestants may be featured in event promotions.

Watermelon Eating Contest

Courtesy of Hayward Marketplace Foods

A summertime favorite, the Watermelon Eating Contest is messy, fast-paced, and fun for participants and spectators alike. It’s one of the most entertaining contests of the festival and a perfect fit for Musky Fest.
Event Info: Friday, June 26, 2026 @ 12:30pm @ the Sevenwinds Casino Main Stage in Downtown Hayward (intersection of 2nd and Main St.)
No pre-registration. Contest will take place with different age groups competing to see who can eat a slice of watermelon the fastest.
Prizes: Chamber Buck Gift Certificates awarded to the fastest individual in each age group.

Dilly Bar Eating Contest

Courtesy of Hayward Dairy Queen

The Dilly Bar Eating Contest is one of Musky Fest’s most anticipated and entertaining traditions! This crowd-favorite challenges contestants to finish their frozen treats while the audience cheers them on! Equal parts sweet, competitive, and hilarious, it’s a highlight of the festival that draws spectators year after year.

Event Info: Saturday, June 27, 2026 @ Noon @ the Sevenwinds Casino Main Stage in Downtown Hayward (intersection of 2nd and Main St.)
No pre-registration. Contest will take place with different age groups competing to see who can eat a Dilly Bar the fastest.
Prizes: Chamber Buck Gift Certificates awarded to the fastest individual in each age group.