The wait is over as the 2026 Frankfort Hot Dog Festival officially opens Friday, July 24, bringing a full day of family-friendly entertainment, live music, food vendors and attractions to downtown Frankfort.
The festival’s Opening Ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. on the Indiana Kitchen Stage located on Clinton Street, officially kicking off one of Clinton County’s biggest summer celebrations.
Following the opening ceremony, visitors can spend the day exploring a wide variety of attractions throughout the festival grounds.
Family Attractions
- Dinosaur Takeover Shows at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
- Chainsaw Carving Demonstrations at 11:30 a.m., 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
- DockDogs Big Air Competitions at noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
- Glass Blowing Demonstrations-
- Dinosaur Museum & Mini Golf
- Carnival Rides
- Food Vendors
- Shopping with craft and commercial vendors
Friday evening will feature live entertainment on two downtown stages.
Friday Night Entertainment
The Farmers Bank Performance Center Stage
- 6 p.m. – Heart 2 Heartbreakers
- 8 p.m. – Rick Knapp
Indiana Kitchen Stage
- 8:30 p.m. – Isaac Rudd
From 4 to 6 p.m., Cindy Loveless of Kaspar Media will broadcast live from the festival on WILO 96.9 FM and Boone 102.7 FM. The live broadcast will include interviews, festival updates and free giveaways sponsored by Frankfort Main Street.
The celebration continues Saturday with another full day of events, including the COACH Kids Breakfast, WeCare Color Bun Run, Doxie Derby Dachshund Races, Hot Dog Eating Contest, DockDogs competitions, live entertainment throughout the day and evening, and a fireworks finale.
Festival organizers encourage residents and visitors from across the region to come to downtown Frankfort, enjoy the food, support local vendors and businesses, and experience everything the Frankfort Hot Dog Festival has to offer throughout the weekend.
