On Saturday, September 28th, the Thompson’s Station Dog & Pony Show takes place. Bring a healthy appetite for the annual chili cook-off and be ready to partake of the various food vendors who have planned to come too.
The chili cook-off is a local tradition and fundraiser for the Thompson’s Station Community Association, a charitable organization that funds park projects. Entry fees are only $20 and you must register by September 13th. Space is limited and it is first come, first served for entering your best chili. There are two categories to enter, the “Red Chili” and “Anything Goes.”
According to the official contest rules and regulations, “Red Chili” is defined as “any kind of meat or combination of meats cooked with chili peppers, various spices and other ingredients.” “Anything Goes” opens the door to alternative chili recipes and ingredients. Contestants may enter more than one batch of chili. Each chili entry must be four (4) quarts at minimum. Judging will take place at 11:00 a.m. Afterward, festival patrons can participate in the public tasting for a small fee, casting votes with tickets for their favorite chili(s). The official judges conduct a blind taste test, but during the public tasting, contestants are encouraged to “market” for people’s votes.
Chili Cook-off organizer, Dawn Craig urges contestants to “bring their antics—the wackier, the better.” For example, she said, “You can promote your chili by coming up with a creative theme or name, decorating your tasting area, dressing up in costume, or all of the above.” Both a Judge’s Winner and a People’s Choice winner will be awarded after the public tasting. Prizes include the coveted Silver Ladle plaque, various kitchen items and a $100 Publix gift card. For more information about the Chili Cook-off, contact Dawn Craig at [email protected].
