Hot Dog Day was founded by Alfred University students Mark O'Meara and Eric Vaughn in 1972 as a way to bring together Alfred University, Alfred State College, and the village of Alfred for the benefit of area charities and nonprofits.
The event is held on a Saturday towards the end of April every year.
2022 marked the 50th Anniversary Festival for Hot Dog Day.
Typically the day involves many separate events run by different clubs, such as a 5k in the morning, parade down Main Street, live music, a festival and vendor fair held on Main Street through the afternoon, and a Pine Hill Derby held the Friday before.
Clubs and sports teams usually participate in running the event, for Student Senate or volunteer service requirements.