BOSTON, Sept. 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — For decades, Bigfoot believers have chased shaky photos and grainy footage that never closed the case. Today, Hard Mountain Dew is joining the hunt to launch its first-ever Bigfoot Bounty – a $1 million challenge: prove the legendary creature exists.

Cryptid hunters, skeptics, and armchair experts 21 and older now through November 30 can submit verified evidence at HardDewBigfootBounty.com for a shot at the prize. Evidence will be judged against rigorous standards co-developed by Bigfoot expert, Bryce Johnson. Known for starring in and producing a hit docuseries that follows a team of Sasquatch specialists venturing into the wilderness to prove Bigfoot is real, he brings a trusted voice and genuine enthusiasm to the hunt.

Timed to peak Bigfoot sighting season in the fall, Hard Mountain Dew is turning seasonal fascination into a money-backed hunt for the truth. As temperatures cool, more adventurists head outdoors, while increased wildlife activity and soft, moisture-rich ground create ideal conditions for spotting and preserving tracks of Bigfoot.

How to enter

To be considered for the $1 million prize, participants 21 or older must submit a compelling entry that includes at least four of the following seven forms of evidence:

  • Bigfoot Paw Print: A footprint measuring 37-38.5 inches long, found pressed 6 inches into solid gravel.
  • Bigfoot Handprint: A clearly documented 13-inch handprint displaying distinct shape, proportions, and unusual characteristics suitable for further examination.
  • Thermal Imaging Capture: Night vision footage showing a 7-9-foot-tall heat signature moving at 20-25 mph through dense forest.
  • Hair Follicle Sample: A tuft of dark brown, black, or reddish-brown hair found snagged on a branch 5-10 feet off the ground, containing “unknown DNA markers.”
  • Audio Recording: High-frequency vocalizations, knocks, calls or other unexplained sounds consistent with reported Bigfoot activity.
  • Environmental Remnants: Debris and/or environmental remnants with no visible machinery or storm damage nearby.
  • Bigfoot Cameo: A photo that appears to catch Bigfoot photobombing you.

The $1 million prize requires actual, verified proof that Bigfoot exists. Hard Mountain Dew loves a good contest, even if it involves a creature that only exists in legend (so far!), so don’t let reality stop you from having a little fun and give it your best shot. For more information, check out our rules.

Bigfoot-Sized Silver Lining

Not everyone can bag Bigfoot. Win or lose, 100 fans will still score a free pack of Hard Mountain Dew (in the form of cold-hard cash!) if they submit their best evidence – because every search deserves at least one guaranteed win. Even if no one claims the full Bigfoot Bounty, the brand is proving it had the guts to put real money behind the myth.

“Hard Mountain Dew has always been about chasing bold experiences, and Bigfoot Bounty takes that mindset to the next level,” said Erica Taylor, senior brand director for Hard Mountain Dew. “Every fall, someone’s got a story of a shape in the trees or a sound they can’t explain. Whether you catch Bigfoot or just catch a good story trying, there’s nothing better than an ice-cold Hard Mountain Dew at the end of the hunt.”

Visit HardDewBigfootBounty.com for full program details, and follow Hard Mountain Dew on Facebook, Instagram and X for the latest. For product details or to find your nearest source of Hard Mountain Dew, visit HardMountainDew.com.

About Hard Mountain Dew:

Bold, delicious flavor with the added bite of 5% ABV, Hard Mountain Dew brings the big citrus flavor fans of the soft drink know and love, now with the hard kick of alcohol. Available in a variety of flavors, including Hard Mountain Dew®, Hard Mountain Dew Baja Blast®, Hard Mountain Dew Code Red®, Hard Mountain Dew Livewire® and more, Hard Mountain Dew offers no caffeine, zero sugar, 100 calories per 12oz. serving and a whole lot of flavor. For more information, please visit HardMountainDew.com.

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Victoria Pennington
Hard Mountain Dew
victoria.pennington@omc.com

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