Record-Breaking Crowd Powers Economic Boost at 2025 Slawburger Festival

Last Updated 4/28/2025

The aroma of sizzling slawburgers and the lively sounds of local music filled Fayetteville’s Historic Downtown Square on April 19, as the 10th Annual Slawburger Festival drew an estimated 11,300 attendees — a notable jump from last year's 10,000 visitors.

Celebrating Fayetteville’s famous mustard-based slaw-topped burger, the festival featured a full day of activities, including a bustling vendor marketplace, a lively Kids Zone benefitting Junior’s House, and the much-anticipated Slawburger Eating Competition, proudly sponsored by Sonic, Kent Kwik, and Jack Daniel's. Reigning champion Timothy Stokes defended his title in the Men’s Division, devouring an impressive 12 slawburgers. Meanwhile, Rosalee Witkowski reclaimed her crown in the Women’s Division, polishing off 7 slawburgers to the crowd’s delight. The competition was emceed by Elk River Media’s Bryan Neece and Tracie Cowan.

The Ken’s Fast Foods Stage kept the energy high with performances from local favorites William Bain, Levi Ogle, Brinlee Bradford, and Hannah Meeks before Nashville artist Brian Allison headlined the afternoon’s entertainment.

A sweet highlight this year came courtesy of new downtown business The Pythian Parlour, which sponsored the Kids’ Ice Cream Eating Competition. Siblings Ethan Hunt, 8, and Peyton Hunt, 11, clinched victory for the second year in a row—and have already vowed to defend their title in 2026!

The ever-popular Slaw Dog Contest, sponsored by Elk River Veterinary Care, saw 21 furry contestants strut their stuff. Gizmo won Most Handsome, Winnie Best Dressed, while Hotty Toddy Dotty earned the Most Beautiful title.

Festivalgoers also enjoyed free photo strips courtesy of Elk River Trading Company and a brand-new attraction—a dunk tank filled with slaw! Sponsored by Copperweld, the tank made a splash as Sheriff Tull Malone and local radio personality Bryan Neece volunteered to take the plunge into the yellow slaw water, creating a historic (and hilarious) festival moment.

"It was an incredible day for vendors and merchants, fueled by outstanding community support. Our sales were up over 150% compared to last year’s festival,” said Lance Bonin, owner of Mercantile on Market.

The festival’s economic impact was equally impressive. Fayetteville Main Street Board Member and City Alderman Joseph Faulkner shared, “We’re finalizing an Economic Impact Report, but early figures show the festival generated $1.63 million for the local economy, contributing over $80,000 in sales tax revenue.”

Heather McCormick, President of Fayetteville Main Street, added, “We are overwhelmed with gratitude for our sponsors, volunteers, and everyone who made this year’s Slawburger Festival another tremendous success. Every year we build more momentum, attracting new businesses and visitors to our downtown, and we have already met to discuss additions to next year’s festival.”

Beyond the festivities, the Slawburger Festival highlights the powerful role community events play in fueling local economies. These celebrations not only boost tourism and consumer spending but also foster civic pride, strengthen social bonds, and reinforce Fayetteville’s unique identity.

As Fayetteville continues to honor its cultural traditions, the Slawburger Festival remains a vibrant symbol of the town’s community spirit — and its bright future.