National Coney Dog Day

Happy people enjoying coney dogs, with colorful food trucks, summer vibes, and a festive picnic setting.. — National coney dog day illustration

Get ready to sink your teeth into some deliciousness because it's National Coney Dog Day! This mouthwatering holiday celebrates the classic American treat known as the coney dog - a hot dog topped with all sorts of delectable toppings. Whether you prefer it with chili, onions, cheese, or just plain mustard, this is the day to indulge in your favorite coney dog creation.

When is Coney Dog Day?

It's national coney dog day on the 24th July.

The Birth of the Coney Dog

Let's travel back in time to when the coney dog first made its mark on American culinary history. This iconic creation can be traced back to the early 20th century in Detroit, Michigan. Hungarian immigrant brothers, Gust and (rest of text removed) the coney dog sensation took off, and it didn't take long for other cities to catch on.

How to Celebrate National Coney Dog Day

Celebrating National Coney Dog Day is as easy as taking a bite out of a coney dog! Here are a few ideas to make the most of this delicious holiday:

Visit your favorite local diner or hot dog stand and order their signature coney dog. Don't forget to load it up with all the toppings that make your taste buds dance!
Host a coney dog cookout with friends and family. Set up a toppings bar with all the fixings and let everyone build their dream coney dog.
Try your hand at making homemade coney sauce. Search online for recipes and get creative in the kitchen.
Challenge your friends to a coney dog eating contest. Make sure to have plenty of napkins and water handy!

No matter how you choose to celebrate, just make sure you savor every mouthwatering bite of your coney dog. It's a day dedicated to indulging in one of America's most beloved comfort foods.

History behind the term 'Coney Dog'

1917

The birth of the coney dog

The term 'coney dog' originated in 1917 when Gust Keros introduced his own variation of the hot dog in Detroit, Michigan. Keros, a Macedonian immigrant, opened a small restaurant called the Lafayette Coney Island and served a unique hot dog creation with chili, mustard, and onions. This innovative combination became an instant hit among locals and soon gained popularity outside of Detroit.

1924

The introduction of the name 'coney'

In 1924, in a neighboring establishment to Lafayette Coney Island called the American Coney Island, the owners decided to differentiate themselves by officially naming their version of the hot dog 'coney.' The name came from 'Coney Island' in New York, a popular amusement park and beach destination known for its food stands. By adopting this name, they hoped to attract more customers due to the association with the famous tourist spot.

1929

The rivalry between Lafayette and American Coney Islands

Throughout the late 1920s, a friendly competition developed between Lafayette Coney Island and American Coney Island. Located next door to each other, these two restaurants battled for customers by showcasing their unique twist on the coney dog. This rivalry contributed to the popularity of the coney dog within the region and helped establish it as an iconic Detroit dish.

1941

The impact of World War II on the coney dog

During World War II, many young men from Detroit were stationed in various parts of the country, leading to a spread of the coney dog's popularity beyond Michigan. Soldiers and workers from Detroit would introduce the coney dog to their colleagues, creating a demand for this unique hot dog in different regions. This exposure greatly contributed to the nationwide recognition of the coney dog.

1963

The coney dog becomes a Detroit icon

In 1963, the coney dog was officially recognized as a significant part of Detroit's culinary history. It became an icon representing the city's unique food culture and an essential aspect of Detroit's love affair with hot dogs. During this time, coney dog restaurants multiplied, leading to the coney dog's availability in various states across the United States.

Did you know?

Did you know that the term 'coney' in 'coney dog' refers to Coney Island in New York? It's believed that the original Detroit-style coney dogs were inspired by the chili-topped hot dogs served at Coney Island's amusement parks. So, in a way, every time you bite into a coney dog, you're taking a delicious trip to the shores of Coney Island!