More than 60 vendors prepare chili dishes for annual Chili Cook-off
Thousands of locals are gearing up for the Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce’s 36th annual Chili Cook-Off in Downtown Belleville on October 11 and 12, 2019 from 11:00am to 10:30pm both days. What began with just a few vendors on one block of East Main Street in downtown Belleville is now one of Belleville’s largest events celebrating the culinary creations from over 60 vendors, representing individuals, local organizations and area businesses.
Thousands every year come to enjoy the great chili, entertainment and other festivities, but most don’t realize that the Chili Cook-off is the biggest fundraiser of the year for many non-profit organizations that take part. Many of the vendors participating at the Chili Cook-off each year are either a non-profit organization or a business raising money for a charity. 100% of the money you spend at each booth goes to that vendor. In addition, attendees are invited to vote in the People’s Choice contest for their favorite chili with $1 per vote. 100% of the proceeds are donated to the Community Interfaith Food Pantry in Belleville.
Live entertainment will occur over the event weekend featuring performances on Friday by Fanfare at noon and Paint the Earth at 6:00pm. The lineup on Saturday includes Belleville West’s Jazz Band at 11:30am. The USAF Band of Mid-America – Starlifter takes the stage at 3:00pm, and then wraps up with Trixie Delight at 6:00pm.
The weekend will also include the 7th Annual Chili Chase 5k Run/Walk and Kids Pepper Dash Saturday morning, October 12 at 9:00am. It is a family-friendly race and all are welcome to attend. It is $40 to register, and you can do this up to race day.
Please join us for the highly anticipated 36th annual Chili Cook-Off! For more information about vendors, menus, full entertainment schedule or to register for the Chili Chase 5k and to see our sponsors, please visit www.bellevillechili.com. You can also find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BellevilleChiliCookoff.
