Most sweepstakes offer things you’d expect: gift cards, electronics, maybe a vacation. But every once in a while, brands throw in something so odd or hilarious, you have to read it twice to believe it’s real.
From oversized snacks to celebrity surprises, here are some of the weirdest — and most wonderful — sweepstakes prizes people have actually won.
A Year’s Supply of Mayonnaise
One condiment company gave out an entire year’s supply of mayo… to one very lucky (and hopefully sandwich-loving) winner. That’s a lot of potato salad. Bonus? The prize came in bulk-sized tubs — enough to stock a small restaurant.
Be the Star of a Romance Novel Cover
As part of a book promotion, one sweepstakes winner had their photo professionally taken and featured on the cover of a real romance novel. Costume, dramatic poses, wind machine — the full fantasy treatment.
Not your typical “book club” prize.
Custom Tacos Designed in Your Honor
In a fast food chain’s sweep, one winner got a taco named after them and featured on the menu for a limited time. They even got a golden taco trophy. Fame and flavor? That’s a win-win.
A Night in a Giant Shoe
To promote a new sneaker line, a brand turned a huge, custom-built shoe into a one-night hotel suite — and gave one sweepstakes winner the keys. Think glamping meets footwear fan fiction.
Get Paid to Do… Nothing
A wellness brand once ran a “Chill Out Challenge” where the winner got paid to spend the weekend doing absolutely nothing. Pajamas provided. The goal? Promote rest as self-care. Best. Prize. Ever.
A Throne Made of Candy
A candy company once gave away a full-sized throne made out of their products — chocolate bars, gummy packs, and lollipops. It weighed over 200 pounds and probably didn’t make the best living room furniture… but it definitely made a statement.
Your Name on a Roller Coaster
In a theme park promotion, one winner didn’t just get free tickets — they got a new ride temporarily renamed in their honor. For one weekend, guests rode “The Screamin’ Steven” (or whatever the winner’s name was). Talk about bragging rights.
Why Weird Prizes Are the Best Prizes
These quirky giveaways might not be worth thousands of dollars, but they’re unforgettable. They grab attention, go viral, and sometimes become the most cherished wins simply because they’re one of a kind.
So the next time you see a sweepstakes for something weird — a donut costume, a backyard pizza oven, or a year’s worth of socks — don’t scroll past. Those offbeat wins often bring the biggest laughs and the best stories.
And who knows? You could be the next lucky winner sitting on a candy throne.
