Rochester High School students serve chili at the 2023 Chili Cook-Off in downtown Rochester. The event returns Saturday, Oct. 12. InkFreeNews photo by Liz Adkins.

By Leah Sander
InkFreeNews

ROCHESTER — A downtown Rochester staple returns Saturday, Oct. 12.

The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce hosts the 32nd annual Chili Cook-Off then.

Thirteen teams will vie to see who can make the best chili. They include: Rochester Metal Products Corp.; Life Care Center of Rochester; Celebrate Recovery at St. John’s Lutheran Church of Rochester; the Thompson Family; Cardinal Services; Modern Materials; the Fulton County Public Library; Amber Hinderlider; the American Cherokee Paint Band; Indiana Spine Group; Putt’s Bar and Grill; The Tire Store; and Faith Outreach Center.

The public may sample chili starting at 11 a.m., with that running until the chili is gone.

People may purchase five chili tastings for $1 each from a booth at Eighth and Main Streets in Rochester. Payment is cash-only.

Chili tasters may vote for their favorite chili for the People’s Choice Award, sponsored by 4C Health. Judges will determine the first and second place team awards as well as the best decorated booth, with the awards presentation at 1:30 p.m.

Fulton County Chamber Executive Director Jillian Smith noted there will also be a Rookie of the Year Award given out this year.

It will be “presented to a team new to the Chili Cook-Off,” she said. “It will be awarded based on the combined scores of the booth decorations, judges’ scores and people’s choice.”

People may also get food from other vendors on Eighth Street, including at the Chamber’s booth where there will be hot dogs, pop and water.

They may also enjoy viewing the vehicles of the Chamber’s Red Hot Car Show, held at the same time.

Smith said the Chili Cook-Off “has become tradition for downtown Rochester, Fulton County residents and its visitors.”

“Eventgoers comment that this is their favorite event of the year,” she said. “It is an event many look forward to attending with their family and friends. This event draws thousands of tourists to Fulton County and has a positive economic impact on our local businesses.”

She said she hopes attendees “enjoy time with family and friends and experience the beauty of downtown Rochester.”