Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises’ beloved Hot Dog Caper brought thousands of students, faculty and staff together at Bronco Commons on Thursday, Oct. 1, for an afternoon filled with free food, entertainment and community spirit.
Now in its 43rd year, the annual tradition featured free hot dogs, chips, beverages and popsicles, along with live entertainment, interactive learning opportunities, face painting, balloon artists, a photo booth and giveaway prizes. With western-inspired touches throughout the event, attendees enjoyed a festive break from their daily routines while celebrating the Bronco community.
The event welcomed over 5,500 guests from all corners of CPP’s campus, including CPP President Vanya Quiñones joining in on the festivities for the first time as a Bronco! Campus departments such as the Bronco Leadership Center, University Police and Associated Students Inc. all engaged and shared resources directly with students in attendance. The Office of the President’s Tribal Relations further enhanced the event’s program through hands-on crafts and activities to connect and educate Broncos on local Native American communities.
Hot Dog Caper has been a campus tradition since 1983, when former university president Hugh O. La Bounty envisioned a free lunch to welcome the campus community back for the new academic year. What began as a simple meal has grown into one of CPP’s largest and most anticipated events.
The event’s success was made possible through the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and the continued support of campus partners, including Facilities Planning and Management, Associated Students Inc. and Cal Poly Pomona Athletics.
CPPE would like to thank everyone who helped make the 43rd Annual Hot Dog Caper a memorable celebration of food, fun and Bronco spirit. We look forward to welcoming the campus community back for another unforgettable afternoon in 2027!
