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.
This year(2022) the 50th Anniversary Festival will be held.
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.