Great Chili Cook-Off “Comet Café Edition” Returns Friday in Charles City
After its streak of 25 straight years was interrupted by the COVID pandemic, The Great Chili Cook-Off is set to return to Charles City for the first time since 2020.
Organized by Main Street Charles City as a fun community event and program fundraiser, the Chili Cook-Off is back this Friday from 11 am to 1 pm at the Columbus Club in Charles City. The event features eight local “celebrity chefs,” each making their own chili recipe while competing for the coveted “Golden Ladle” award and bragging rights.
Community Development Director Mark Wicks said, “Every year we hear from people asking if we are going to bring the Chili Cook-Off back and how much they enjoyed it in the past. So, you can say it is back by popular demand!”
This year’s theme is “Comet Café Edition,” featuring culinary students from Charles City High School’s Comet Café class taught by instructor Cady Mead. Taking part are students Lukas Vance, Trevor Carolan, Chris Barritt, Clayton Wright, Makenna Baker-Neve, Connor Dietz, plus 2-person teams of Laurie Baking and Jazznee David as well as Keenen Wiley and Jordan Young.
Tickets are $10 per person and will include chili samples, crackers, drink and dessert. Purchase in advance at the Main Street Charles City office or at the door the day while supplies last.
For more information, call (641) 228-2335 or email info@charlescitychamber.com.
