Riverside Park Goats Kick Off Summer Residency in West Harlem with Annual Weed-Eating Contest

A herd of weed-munching goats is returning for another summer residency in Riverside Park.

But before the three grazers—Romeo, Mallomar, and newcomer Big Buddy—get to work tackling the area's invasive plants, they're kicking things off with a live eating contest.

The second annual Great Goat Graze-Off, hosted by the Riverside Park Conservancy, is set for Saturday, July 18 (rain date July 19) from 11am-1:30pm on the lawn just north of the Ten Mile River Playground at 151st Street.

The free event will be overseen by George Shea of Major League Eating—better known as the host of the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest.

The festivities, featuring a total of visiting 15 goats, will include local vendor booths, food and drink, live music, goat-themed merchandise, photo-ops, arts and crafts, games, and educational activities. Attendees can also take part in a "best homemade sign" contest.

After the competition, this year's pack will move to a new area of the park by Riverside Drive and W 137th Street and remain there for 10 weeks.

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