CPP celebrates Hot Dog Caper with fantasy twist
By Aadi Mehta, October 14, 2025
A fantasy world descended upon sunny Bronco Commons Oct. 9, as the 42nd annual Hot Dog Caper loaded with mouthwatering hot dogs, refreshing drinks, classic condiments, ice-cold popsicles and costumes, captivated campus pride.
In previous years, anywhere from 11,000-15,000 hot dogs were handed out.
“I love how many groups on campus come out to this,” said visual communication design student and drink station volunteer Julia Butler. “I see athletics, I see clubs, I see the band, all these groups that usually wouldn’t exist in the same space at the same time.”
Butler volunteered for last year’s Hot Dog Caper and said she enjoys playing a part in an event that opens students’ horizons to what Cal Poly Pomona has to offer.
“As the years have gone by, it’s definitely gotten more popular,” Butler said. “We’ve marketed it better and added more attractions.”
Some of those attractions included the 360-video booth, face painting, music and spin-the-wheel, where participants won prizes like t-shirts, lanyards and stickers.
Outside vendors, including silver and bronze sponsors Albertsons and Foothill Transit, hosted booths where students could ask questions about potential job opportunities or payment plans.
This year’s theme was “fantasy,” highlighting the mystical wonders of fairytales and ancient myths. A few theater students dressed up in costumes that matched the theme and entertained guests around the park by taking pictures and holding playfights.
“Hot Dog Caper is like a big celebration that’s basically saying, ‘Hey, enjoy your time. It’s free. Have fun,’’’ said general theatre student Katherin Jasso, who dressed up as a Greek goddess.
Many students said what draws them to the Hot Dog Caper every year is its affordability, since the variety of food, including unlimited hot dogs, drinks, chips and popsicles, comes at no cost.
“So many students can come together and eat as many hot dogs as they want, especially because it’s free,” said accounting student Hannah Hernandez.
Jose Cruz, a plant science student, said the event also helped him meet new people.
The main sponsor for the event was CPP Enterprises, which worked with vendors and campus partners to coordinate the different activities, food and music. Juan Hernandez, the chief financial officer of CPP Enterprises, dressed in a hot dog costume along with chief operating officer Thomas Sekayan to promote school spirit and positive energy.
“It’s all really for the students,” Juan Hernandez said. “I feel it’s an obligation to give back.”
As the event ended at Bronco Commons, organizers were already looking ahead—CPP Enterprises will announce next year’s Hot Dog Caper theme in late summer.
