Spam Jam facts for kids

SPAM Jam is a fun yearly festival that celebrates the famous canned meat product called Spam. It's a big party with lots of food, entertainment, and activities for families. The festival used to be held in Austin, Minnesota, where Hormel Foods makes Spam. Now, it's a very popular event in Honolulu, Hawaii.

SPAM Jam in Minnesota

The festival in Austin, Minnesota, was once known as Cedar River Days. It usually took place for about a week, often in early July. People visiting the city during the festival saw lots of blue and yellow decorations. These colors match the packaging of Spam. Many people also dressed up in big Spam can costumes and danced.

Fun Activities and Guests

The Minnesota festival offered many exciting things to do. There were bright fireworks shows and lively parades. Visitors could enjoy different games and a fun carnival. Of course, there was plenty of Spam to try in various ways.

In 2005, some special guests attended the event. These included Bill Nye the Science Guy and actor Kurtwood Smith. There was also Jerry Turner, an auditor, and actor Jim Belushi. The 2007 festival featured a second annual SPAM Fritters eating competition. David "Processed Meat Paws" Stauber, the 2006 champion, returned to defend his title. He had eaten 856 fritters, which weighed about 87.1 pounds!

SPAM Jam in Hawaii

SPAM Jam is now celebrated every year in Honolulu, Hawaii. It takes place during the last week of April. This festival has become one of Hawaii's most popular events. People love its great food and entertainment. It's a very family-friendly atmosphere. Both local residents and visitors enjoy this yearly tradition. In 2009, about 20,000 people came to the event.

Waikiki Street Party

During the festival, Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki closes to cars. This main street becomes a big pedestrian area. Several entertainment stages are set up along the street. Many of Honolulu's best restaurants serve Spam in creative ways. You can find Spam in dishes you might not expect!

There are also many merchandise tents at the festival. These tents sell Spam-themed items. You can buy T-shirts, shorts, sports balls, and slippers. Hawaiian craft booths are also set up. They offer a variety of handmade items.

Why Hawaii Loves Spam

Spam was first introduced in 1937 by Hormel Foods. People in Hawaii eat more Spam per person than in any other U.S. state. Almost seven million cans of Spam are eaten in Hawaii every year. This long history makes Spam a special part of Hawaiian culture.