Can Chunk Defend His Crown, Or Will Another Bear Be Burlier? Fat Bear Week 2026

Meet a massive, 1,400-pound bear in the woods, and you might want to run. Watch one chowing down on salmon from the safety of your living room, though, and you might want to vote. At least, that’s what officials at Alaska’s Katmai National Park hope.

That’s right. It’s Fat Bear Week 2026.

Held annually since 2014, Fat Bear Week offers fans a chance to watch the brown bears of Alaska stuff themselves silly as they get ready to hibernate for the winter. Park officials set up cameras near rivers in the park. People can watch the bears catch and eat salmon. Viewers are encouraged to decide which bear has bulked up the best. They can vote online. The competition is based on people's opinions. Nobody dares to weigh the bears. Still, winners like last year’s champion, Chunk, often manage to gain hundreds of pounds.

Voting begins September 22. It ends on “Fat Bear Tuesday,” September 29. Chunk is back to defend his title this year. He’ll have hefty competition, though, since he’ll be competing against several mama bears and their cubs. For the first time this year, bear families are being counted as one entry for voting purposes.

“There are more cubs at Brooks Camp this year than have been seen in a long time,” Katmai Park Superintendent Mark Sturm said in a written statement. “A new generation of fat bears is taking shape, and they’re off to a strong start. We’re excited to watch them grow and learn as they prepare for winter in Katmai’s incredible ecosystem.”

Last year, fans cast more than 1.7 million votes. Park officials hope this year’s event draws even more attention. That can mean more buy-in for protecting the bears and their natural habitat.

“If more of us are aware of this amazing place and its wildlife, then more of us can take action to protect Katmai for the future,” Katmai officials wrote in a press release.

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