Can You Take the Heat? PETA Flips the Hot-Wings Challenge
For Immediate Release:
October 7, 2026
Contact:
Moira Colley 202-483-7382
Hot-wings challenges usually put both humans and chickens through the wringer—but PETA is putting an animal-friendly twist on the popular test of spice tolerance. On Sunday, Oct. 11, PETA is inviting L.A. media to its first-ever fiery vegan wings challenge at Melrose Trading Post. Challengers will attempt to conquer five tasty vegan wings slathered in five increasingly scorching sauces—with all the sweat, tears, and bragging rights of a traditional wings challenge, but none of the slaughter.
Media Event: Sunday, Oct. 11, noon to 1 p.m.
Where: Melrose Trading Post, 7850 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles
Those who make it through all five rounds can cool down with oat milk, vegan ranch, celery, and other heat-beaters, snap victory selfies in front of a themed backdrop, and score custom merch.
The challenge will be open to the public on Oct. 10 and 17 from noon to 7 p.m. at PETA’s James Cromwell Empathy Center (2624 W. Sunset Blvd.) and Oct. 11 and 18 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Melrose Trading Post (7850 Melrose Ave.). Additional details and RSVP info are available here.
Each person who goes vegan spares nearly 200 animals every year, and PETA’s free vegan starter kit can help those looking to make the switch. PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to eat or abuse in any other way”—points out that when it comes to the ability to feel pain, hunger, and fear, a chicken is a dog is a boy. For more information, please visit PETA.org or follow PETA on X, Facebook, or Instagram.
