Backyard Chefs Wanted For Spiedie Fest 2026

There’s nothing quite like the sight of hot air balloons lifting off over Otsiningo Park while the aroma of marinated meats fills the summer air. If you’ve spent years fine-tuning your family’s secret marinade or tweaking a signature grill recipe in your backyard, your moment to shine has finally arrived.

The 42nd Annual Spiedie Fest & Balloon Rally is officially returning to Binghamton from August 7 through August 9, 2026. As part of the weekend's celebrations, home cooks from across the area are invited to step up to the grill and compete in the Backyard Chef Spiedie Cooking Contest.

How Spiedie Fest Honors Binghamton’s Favorite Tradition

While Spiedie Fest brings major musical acts like Brett Young and LOCASH, vibrant hot air balloon launches, and family attractions to the Southern Tier, the delicious hometown classic remains at the heart of the festival. The annual cooking contest honors the iconic dish that sparked the entire celebration over four decades ago.

Taking place on Sunday, August 9, at 1:00 p.m., the competition gives local grill masters the chance to put their culinary skills to the test. Whether you're carrying on a family recipe or bringing a totally fresh take to the table, the contest is all about celebrating local flavor and community spirit.

Spiedie Cooking Contest Categories and Youth Awards

Competitors can enter across four distinct divisions: Chicken, Pork, Lamb, and non-traditional recipes. In addition to individual category prizes and the overall Grand Champion title, younger grillers ages 18 and under can compete for the Emerging Spiedie Chef Founder's Award. It is a fantastic opportunity for the next generation of local chefs to carry the region's favorite culinary tradition forward.

How to Register for the Spiedie Fest Cooking Contest

If you’re ready to claim bragging rights and showcase your best marinades, don’t wait too long to sign up. Space is limited for the Sunday afternoon competition.

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To reserve your spot at the grill, head to SpiedieFest.com, select "Spiedie Fest Events," and click on the Cooking Contest tab to fill out your entry. For specific questions regarding the event, you can reach out to contest coordinator Brian Egan at SpiedieFest607@gmail.com or call (607) 242-2142.