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Luverne celebrated its 59th annual Hot Dog Night on July 15 with merchants sharing more than 12,000 free hotdogs plus creative toppings and side dishes.
After a pandemic 2020 summer of limited parties, it seemed the 2021 Hot Dog Night was bigger and better than ever.
Chamber Director Jane Lanphere thanked the businesses who participated and reflected on the origins of the celebration.
Hot Dog Night began in 1962 when Luverne businesses planned a night of free hot dogs to thank their customers.
“The event has grown over the years to add quirky entertainment and fun for all ages, and we also thank the businesses and organizations who added to the night’s festivities.
“Although businesses have come and gone over the years, the tradition of giving away free hot dogs never wavered.”
Lanphere said the event has become another endearing reason Luverne residents and former residents are proud of their community.
“The delicious and creative toppings you served, along with special treats, put smiles of joy on the faces of thousands of people who call Luverne their home (and the others that no doubt wish they could),” she said.
She again recognized Premium Minnesota Pork for donating 5,000 hot dogs to reduce the price that merchants paid for their allotted number of hotdogs.
And she encouraged businesses to join the 60th annual event on July 14, 2022.
“Thank you and your employees for making this great community event a ‘hot diggity dog’ success,” Lanphere said.