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Old Saybrook Chamber Chili Fest is Back for 25th Year

Mark the calendar and start your appetite: The 25th annual Chili Fest is coming to Main Street from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 26.

Chili Fest is an annual tradition in Old Saybrook through which chefs compete for the title of Best Chili by winning the public vote. Ballots cost $15 and are available for pickup at the Chamber of Commerce office at 1 Main Street as well as other stations along Main Street. Voters must sample at least ten chilies for a ballot to be counted.

Money raised will support the chamber’s Wilfred Hunter Memorial Scholarship and the top three vote getting chefs get a donation made to a charity of their choice.

The event, which organizers note will be held “rain, shine, or snow” will feature tables set up along Main Street with different chili variations to try. Christa Maynard, the member services manager for the Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce, said that sponsorship and chef spots are still open for interested parties.

“It’s the 25th year, so we’re really hoping to get 25 different chefs,” said Maynard.

Those interested in sponsoring or participating in the day should contact the chamber.

“Since it is our 25th year, we do have some fun surprised planned for the day and we do also give out awards for things like best dressed,” Maynard said.

Last year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic the chili fest had to be turned into a weeklong event where people came into participating restaurants to sample chili there rather than the traditional set up of a one-day extravaganza.

“We were happy we still were able to do something to support the restaurants” said Maynard.

As glad as the chamber was to find a way to hold the event last year, Maynard said they’re very happy to hold the event as normal this year.

“We’re thrilled. We got the approvals from everyone and we’re happy to be able to do this in person and it’s outside so that helps, too,” said Maynard.

“We really hope it will help kick off the year and everything will go well,” said Maynard.

For more information, visit www.oldsaybrookchamber.com/chili-fest.