The Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest will be back in Coney Island this weekend, and for the first time since the pandemic began, it will be in front of a live, cheering audience.

The challengers weighed in at Hudson Yards this morning, a long subway ride from the boardwalk.

A total of 18 men and 10 women are expected to compete on Sunday. Michelle Lesco is favored to win the women’s contest — her record is 34 hot dogs.

Reigning women's champion, Miki Sudo, will not be competing this year because of her pregnancy.

Joey Chestnut, the defending men's champion, is looking for his 14th victory. He currently holds the world record of 75 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes - a record he thinks he can beat.

"I'm going for this win, and I'm hoping I find that perfect rhythm where I can keep pushing, and I'm comfortable, and hopefully 76, 77 sounds doable,” Chestnut said, looking at a tray of hot dogs . "Look at those hot dogs, they belong inside of my tummy."

The women's contest starts at 11:30 a.m. on July 4, and the men's contest will take place at noon.