UPDATE: Fat Bear Week 2025 is officially underway, and voting begins at 9:00 am EST today! This beloved annual event at Katmai National Park in Alaska celebrates the remarkable brown bears as they bulk up for winter hibernation. This year, participants can cast their votes until September 30, culminating in the crowning of the fattest bear.
Rangers at Katmai National Park track each bear’s weight gain, emphasizing that the more pounds they pack on, the better their chances of surviving the six-month slumber. But it’s not solely about weight; it’s about finding the bear that best embodies “fatness and success,” according to park officials. The voting format resembles a March Madness-style bracket, creating a thrilling competition that keeps bear lovers engaged and excited.
This year’s contenders include returning champions like 32 Chunk, a formidable male hoping for redemption after a broken jaw, and 128 Grazer, who has previously claimed victory in both 2023 and 2024. Other fan favorites include 503, a sociable male, and 602, affectionately nicknamed “flotato” for his penchant for napping during fishing sessions.
The excitement is palpable, especially as rangers report that the bears enjoyed record salmon runs this year in the Brooks River. “You can vote for the bear who is fattest, or the bear whose story touches your heart,” said Naomi Boak, a media ranger for Katmai National Park. “The bears don’t know who you voted for.”
In addition to voting, bear enthusiasts can contribute to the Otis Fund, which aims to protect the park and its inhabitants. This fund is named after the legendary bear Otis, the first-ever Fat Bear Week champion, who left an indelible mark on the event despite being presumed deceased.
Since its inception in 2014 as a single-day event, Fat Bear Week has exploded in popularity. Last year, over 1.4 million votes were cast from 60 countries, a significant increase from the initial 1,700 participants. “It’s grown enormously,” Boak noted. “Like the bears.”
As the week unfolds, fans are encouraged to engage with updates and live feeds available on the park’s website, deepening their connection to these fascinating creatures. The urgency to vote and support conservation efforts makes Fat Bear Week not only a fun distraction but also a vital opportunity to contribute to wildlife preservation.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this heartwarming and thrilling competition! Cast your vote now and help select the bear that exemplifies the spirit of Fat Bear Week 2025!
