The Elkhorn Area Chamber of Commerce is putting together final touches on its seventh annual Oktoberfest scheduled Saturday, Oct. 20, and is still in need of locals vying to be named this year’s chili champion.
The annual chili cook-off has been a staple of the fall festival since its beginning.
Hundreds have come out to enjoy samples of a variety of chilies – red and green (even chocolate), beef, turkey and vegetable, and voting on the tastiest recipe.
To drum up more competition, organizers extended the deadline to enter until Wednesday, Oct. 17.
Contestants must bring at lease eight quarts of warmed chili (no pasta) in a large crock-pot. Chili must be delivered to the Courthouse Square in Veterans Park by 11 a.m. the day of the event and must be stationed under the tasting tent until winners are announced at 2 p.m.
Contestants can sample other entries for free and prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place. Cash amounts of $200, $100 and $50 will be awarded.
To register, visit http://www.elkhorn-wi.org/ or call (262) 723-5788.
New this year will be a Kids Costume Parade.
The Chamber is seeking donations to put into the treat bags for each participating child.
Suggested items include stickers, pencils, candy, flashlights or coupons. Approximately 150-175 of each item is needed.
Kids are welcome to wear their Halloween costumes to Oktoberfest, and join the parade around the Activity Stage at 3 p.m. and receive a “trick or treat” bag from the Chamber afterward.
The Chamber is also looking for beer and wine donations for the popular Cork & Cap Pull in the Wine & Beer Tasting Tent.
Donations must be a value of at least $10 or more. Attendees pay $10 and pull either a cork or a cap and see what they win.
All donations should be dropped off at the Chamber office, 203 E. Walworth St., by the end of the business day Friday, Oct. 12.
