Every fall, the internet’s fluffiest competition returns—Fat Bear Week! If you’re not familiar, Fat Bear Week is a celebration of the chunky, salmon-stuffed brown bears of Katmai National Park in Alaska. These bears spend their summer feasting, bulking up for hibernation, and then go head-to-head in a March Madness–style tournament where the public gets to vote for the fattest bear. Yes, it’s just as amazing as it sounds!
What is Fat Bear Week?
Hosted by Katmai National Park and Preserve, Fat Bear Week is a weeklong online event where you get to admire before-and-after photos of these incredible creatures. Bears start lean in the spring, then balloon into furry giants by fall thanks to endless salmon snacks. The competition highlights the bears’ transformation and survival strategy while letting people worldwide root for their favorites.
Why Do the Bears Get So Fat?
It’s not just for fun (though we love watching it!)—these bears are eating nonstop to survive. During hibernation, they won’t eat or drink for months. Instead, they’ll live off their fat reserves. The fatter the bear, the better their odds of making it through winter. Think of it as nature’s ultimate meal prep! 🍣🐟
How the Competition Works
- Voting: Fans head to Katmai’s website and cast votes in daily matchups.
- Bracket Style: Bears face off against one another in rounds until one ultimate winner is crowned.
- Past Champions: Legendary bears like Otis and 747 “Bear Force One” have claimed the crown, but every year brings new surprises.
Why We Love Fat Bear Week
- It’s wholesome, free fun that unites people worldwide. 🌍
- The transformation photos are jaw-dropping. 📸
- It raises awareness about wildlife conservation and the ecosystem of Katmai National Park. 🌲
How to Join the Fun
📅 Mark your calendars! The Fat Bear Week bracket is revealed September 22, the tournament and voting take place September 23-30, and the champion is crowned on September 30, 2025.
🗳️ Head to the official Katmai National Park page to vote.
📲 Share your picks on social media with #FatBearWeek and see which team your friends are rooting for.
Final Thoughts
Fat Bear Week is more than just an internet meme—it’s a chance to celebrate nature, conservation, and (of course) some of the most majestic, fluffiest animals on Earth. Whether you’re Team Otis, Team 747, or just here for the bear memes, one thing’s for sure: the fattest will be the fiercest!
So, who’s your pick for this year’s fattest bear?
