2017 Philly Cheesesteak and Food Fest: What You Need To Know

PHILADELPHIA – Citizen's Bank Park will transform into a veritable food mecca later this month, as it will host the third annual Philly Cheesesteak and Food Fest on Saturday, Sept. 23.

From 12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., the home of the Phillies will be the home of all things Philly foods for the day, with a focus on cheesesteaks of course.

Attendees will be able to sample a variety of Philadelphia’s signature eats all in the concourse of the ballpark. More than 40 different Philadelphia food vendors will be on hand to offer up other foods for those who aren't cheesesteak fans.

There will also be live music, a beer garden, appearances by Cheesy the Cheesesteak and the Phillie Phanatic, and much more.

Activities include a chance to walk the bases in the park, hang out in the dugout, a cheesesteak-eating competition, a Kid’s Zone carnival area which includes rides and games, and more.

The cheesesteak eating competition will include competitive eating stars former WW tag team champion Jerry Sags of the Nasty Boys, professional competitive eater Molly Schuyler. The competition will benefit Kisses for Kyle Foundation which works to fight pediatric cancer. Wing Bowl Champ Bob "Notorious B.O.B." Shoudt said he will not be participating in the contest this year.

You can enter the eating contest here.

In addition to the standard Philly favorite cheesesteaks and sandwiches, the festival will incorporate the most anticipated upcoming movie, "Flatliners" in the event. The upcoming flick will have its own themed sandwich for the festival, created by Devault Foods.

Premium tickets cost $45 and will get you guests up to 10 food samples, two Phillies game tickets, and free parking.

The $65 VIP admission offers 15 food samples, 90 minute early entry at 11 a.m., and two Phillies game tickets, free parking, and access to the exclusive VIP area. Tickets are available online here.

Kids under 8 years old get in for free.

“We couldn’t be more excited bringing this great Philly event back again," David Feldman, Organizer of the Philly Cheesesteak and Food Fest, said. "This year we have even more great options for food, drink, and entertainment. This is our city's annual opportunity to celebrate cheesesteaks and everything that makes Philadelphia great."

Attendees who want to sample craft beers will have to spend an extra $20 upon entry of the beer garden in the festival grounds.

Vendors will be announced on the website before the event.

Vendors interested in participation in the event can use the online form here to learn how they can join. Additionally, sponsorship opportunities are available and more can be learned by filling out this form.

The festival will go on rain or shine.

Image via stu_spivack, Flickr Commons