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The World’s Largest French Fry Festival Is Happening This September Right Here In North Dakota

The World’s Largest French Fry Festival in North Dakota celebrates potatoes with tons of french fries, activities, and a parade.

Published Aug 23, 2021

Written by 

Leah Peretz

French fries - what is not to love? Whether they are crinkle cut, waffle shaped, thin and crispy, or thick and covered in toppings, french fries are the perfect side, snack, or meal. While many people think of Idaho as being the place for potatoes, you may be surprised to know that a huge amount of potatoes come right from our lovely Peace Garden State. Indeed, tons upon tons of potatoes are grown in this state - many specifically for this beloved food! It's only fitting, then, that there is the World's Largest French Fry Festival in North Dakota.

After an unfortunate cancellation in 2020, the Potato Bowl USA and Simplot French Fry Feed is returning in September of 2021 to Grand Forks, North Dakota.

A lively outdoor festival scene with a large crowd, tents, and trees under a partly cloudy sky.
PotatoBowlUSA/Facebook

This is the biggest event of its kind in the world, having smashed multiple world records for pounds of french fries given out. Stop by and get your own share of the tasty, golden fries yourself.

A serving of golden, crispy French fries in a paper tray, held by a hand.
PotatoBowlUSA/Facebook

Multiple tons of french fries and many gallons of ketchup are consumed at this event, celebrating the potato farmers in the area.

A person in a plaid shirt holds a tray of fries while reaching for a ketchup dispenser.
PotatoBowlUSA/Facebook

On Thursday, September 18, 2021, partake in french fries and enjoy french fry-themed activities like french fry eating contests...

A group of men compete in a food-eating contest on a stage, with spectators watching from the side.
PotatoBowlUSA/Facebook

...and potato sack races. Plus, you can meet a certain clown mascot that will be there to share in the joys of the potatoes that supply one of the world's most famous fast food chains. Yep, a huge portion of those come right from North Dakota!

Children participate in a sack race on a grassy field during a community event, smiling and jumping in burlap sacks.
PotatoBowlUSA/Facebook

The event also includes a parade for people of all ages to enjoy.

A parade float featuring a race car and Buffalo Wild Wings banner, with spectators watching on a sunny day.
PotatoBowlUSA/Facebook

The rest of the weekend is packed with fun, too. There is a fireworks show on Friday that is sure to dazzle and delight.

Colorful fireworks burst in the night sky, illuminating the darkness with bright sparks and trails.
PotatoBowlUSA/Facebook

Finish it off with the big game on Saturday. It's a great weekend of activity for the entire family to enjoy - while munching on delicious french fries, too!

A football game in progress, with players in green and white uniforms on a green field, cheerleaders in the background.
PotatoBowlUSA/Facebook

Visit the event's official website for more information on the schedule, activities, and locations.

You can get delicious french fries all year long at these restaurants in North Dakota. If you're a french fry fan, give them a try!

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