Wendy’s is holding a look-alike contest—with a grand prize of free burgers for a year—to celebrate World Redhead Day

Calling all redheads to the front! Wendy’s is honoring its roots by holding a look-alike contest for its iconic logo in New York City on May 26, World Redhead Day. Fans are encouraged to show up as the best version of Wendy, the redheaded mascot with pigtails and freckles originally modeled after one of Wendy’s founder Dave Thomas’s own daughters. The contest winner earns free Dave’s single hamburgers for a year. In a statement, Wendy’s said redheads bring a bold energy and leave an impression—a presence the fast-food restaurant chain has always recognized as part of its own story. “Since 1969, Wendy’s has leaned into what makes it different, and World Redhead Day is a moment that reflects that same mindset: one that celebrates being unforgettable instead of blending in,” the chain said in a statement. “The look-alike contest brings that idea to life in a way that is social, visual, and fun—a live celebration of the people, personality, and spirit that make redheads, and Wendy’s, impossible to forget.” How do I enter the contest? Participants, who must be 18 years or older, can enter the contest at Seaport Square in Manhattan’s Financial District on May 26. The event includes giveaways, photo ops, and special surprises. The competition will take place over three rounds. Would-be Wendys need to capture the iconic look of the logo IRL, prepare a social media post channeling the brand’s tone for National Hamburger Day, and perform an original Wendy’s commercial for judges. The judges’ scores will determine the grand prize winner. A look at World Redhead Day Celebrations Redhead Day celebrations began in the Netherlands in 2005. Dutch artist Bart Rouwenhorst put out a call for redheaded models for an art project. He received a large number of responses and brought everyone together for a group photo. Every year following, Rouwenhorst organized a redhead meetup, which grew into the annual Redhead Days festival. Attendees travel internationally for the t