Rachael Ray to Host Blue Moon Burger Bash at New York City Wine & Food Festival
Rachael Ray announced she will return to host the Blue Moon Burger Bash at the New York City Wine & Food Festival on October 15. The event, in its 18th year, will take place at The Rooftop at Pier 17. Ray will co-host with Bert Kreischer, and chefs will compete for the best burger title before celebrity judges.
Rachael Ray announced on Instagram that she will return to the New York City Wine & Food Festival on October 15. The Blue Moon Burger Bash, now in its 18th year, is a signature festival event and will be held at The Rooftop at Pier 17.
Ray will co-host with comedian Bert Kreischer. Chefs from across the country will compete for the best burger title, with celebrity judges Cedric the Entertainer, Sophie Flay, and Ana Navarro deciding. Ray first hosted the event in 2007, and attendees can help choose this year's champion.
This announcement may energize food-festival fans, NYC tourism, and burger-focused chefs. It could draw crowds to Pier 17, benefiting local vendors and hospitality workers. Celebrity involvement may broaden reach beyond food media, while fan voting could make the competition feel participatory. The event may also reinforce NYCWFF's role as a cultural gathering, though its impact likely remains mostly entertainment and culinary, not broad social change.