JANUARY 15, 2009 ISSUE
Crank Up Your Crock Pot
Winterfest’s 11th Annual Chili Challenge Takes Place January 24
Photo by Todd Bush
As Winterfest eases into its second decade, Chili Challenge organizers are turning up the heat on one of the weekend’s most popular events. From 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 24, hoards of salivating and highly discriminating chili connoisseurs will cram into the Blowing Rock School gym to sample spicy offerings concocted by more than 30 amateur and professional chefs.
Joining the stellar pack of local amateurs and pros will be chili-concocting members of Chili Appreciation Society International. CASI’s mission is to promote chili and raise money for charity. The nonprofit is involved in more than 500 chili cook-offs each year and raises more than $1 million annually for local charities. CASI chefs will compete from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. or until their chili runs out.
As always, it pays to be hottest amateur chili chef in town. Cash prizes of $500, $250 and $125 will be awarded to the first, second and third prize winners respectively. For restaurants, the highly-coveted Golden Trophy, not to mention pride, is on the line.
Last but not least, the Golden Spoon Award will be given to the table presenting the best decorations and most creative display.
Each chili challenger is asked to concoct five to six gallons of chili. Because of the lack of electricity available for heating, Chili Cook-Off organizers will provide a chaffer and sterno to keep the chili piping hot in the pot, as well as 8x11 signage, a white paper tablecloth, serving cups, teaspoons and napkins.
For those concerned about putting out the chili-induced flames, both bottled water and soda will be for sale from organizers throughout the event (bring your own antacids). You might even consider bringing a piece of cornbread if your taste buds are hankering for a walk on the spicy side.
Regional band The Renegar Brothers will provide live mountain music beginning at noon.
Although the activities are scheduled to last until 2:00 p.m., the chili more than likely will not, so don’t wait until lunchtime to grab from your bowl and spoon.
Admission to the Chili Challenge for tasters is $7. The entry fee for Chili Challenge competitors is $20 in advance and $25 on the day of the event. In addition to their chili, competitors are responsible for providing table decorations, a server, serving utensils and a small fire extinguisher.
To obtain an entry form, click to www.blowingrockwinterfest.com or call 828-295-7851.
Want To Go?
Date: Saturday, January 24
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Blowing Rock School gym
Cost: $7 for tasters/$5 for kids 12 and under/$20 for contestants in advance/$25 day of the challenge
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