5 Boro Pizza Challenge 2017

Five slices. Five boros. One day.

Calling all pizza enthusiasts: here's a challenge you'll only find in New York City. It's competitive eating meets The Amazing Race. It's a test of your subway savvy and gastrointestinal fortitude; a demonstration of your Instagram filter prowess. And all for a great cause.

Here's the back-story: in 2013 two hungry friends decided to visit all five boroughs in one day and eat a slice of pizza in each. And they were going to do it by subway, bike, ferry, and bus -- no cars allowed. It started as an adventurous way to spend an afternoon, but a delicious tradition was born. This year, for the second year in a row, the 5 Boro Pizza Challenge is opened to the masses to spread the NYC pizza love.

Here's how it works: on Saturday, September 23rd we'll gather under the arch in Washington Square Park. At 11:00 a.m. sharp, everyone will receive a list of the appointed five pizzerias and we will start the clock. You'll plot your course, go to each pizzeria in any order you prefer, eat a slice, and document it on Instagram #5boropizzachallenge. When you're done, you'll return to the after-party location (TBA) in Greenwich Village. There, having traversed the city for the love of pizza, you will be declared 5 Boro Pizza Challenge Champion. All finishers will receive a 5 Boro Pizza Challenge Champion medal and a tshirt.

The first person or team to complete the challenge will be dubbed 5 Boro Pizza Challenge Champion of 2017, which includes serious bragging rights as well as other cool prizes.

The 5 Boro Pizza Challenge is a fundraiser for Transportation Alternatives, NYC's leading advocate for walking, biking and public transportation, so no car travel allowed (including taxis, Uber, Lyft, etc.). You'll have to get around the way most New Yorkers do -- subway, bus, ferry, bike, and of course, your own two feet.

Registration includes entry into the 5 Boro Pizza Challenge, as well as a t-shirt and finisher's medal (for those who register by September 20th). You cover the cost of pizza and transportation.

FAQs

Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event?

This is a family-friendly event. All are welcome to join.

Where can I contact the organizer with any questions?

E-mail 5boropizzachallenge@gmail.com.

Is my registration/ticket transferrable?

You may transfer your registration to another person, but you must notify the event organizer before the day of the event. Sorry, no refunds.

How do I register as a team?

Each team member must complete an individual registration, but may indicate their team name.

I don't have a team, but I love pizza and meeting new people. Can I join a team?

Not to worry - lots of Pizza Challengers in 2016 arrived solo and left with new pizza-loving friends. If you'd like to link up with other solo Challengers, arrive a bit early on Saturday and we'll help make some connections. Or you can do the Pizza Challege solo, if that's your slice of pie.

How do I prove that I ate a slice in all five boroughs?

Take a photo that provides sufficient evidence that you ate a slice from each of the pizzerias on the official 5 Boro Pizza Challenge list and post it to Instagram using the hashtag #5boropizzachallenge.

What's included in the cost of registration?

Registration includes entry into the 5 Boro Pizza Challenge, as well as a t-shirt and finisher's medal (for those who register by September 20th). You cover the cost of pizza and transportation. All participants can compete for the title of 5 Boro Pizza Challenge Ultimate Champion of 2017, which includes serious bragging rights as well as other cool prizes.

Do I have to eat the crust?

That's totally up to you, but we reserve the right to judge you if you don't.