Great Lakes Annual Chili Cook-Off
If you’re looking for something hot ‘n’ spicy to warm you up this October, then you might be interested in the Great Lakes annual Chili cook off. After 16 successful years of food and fun, Plymouth’s popular chili cook-off features tasty chili, exciting games, and upbeat music from 11 a.m. to 5 pm and funds will go toward aiding local charities.
How it Started
With the help of her husband, Annette Horn started the competition as a way to share their love of food and friends. “When we moved to Plymouth, we always thought downtown Plymouth would be a fabulous location for a chili cook-off,” Horn said. Now, many years and chili recipes later, this annual event draws almost 15,000 visitors each year, gaining in popularity with every bite.
The situation is considered to be a win-win for both locals and tourists. Businesses flourish with the increased business brought in for the annual chili cook off, and tourists get to enjoy the fabulous recipes and family-friendly environment.
About the Cook Off
Great Lakes Annual Chili cook off has more to offer than a mean recipe for a burnt mouth. This year, the chili cook off has a grand prize of $1,000, bringing in cooks from across the country to show off their cooking prowess.
“When we moved to Plymouth, we always thought downtown Plymouth would be a fabulous location for a chili cook-off,” Horn said.
Additionally, winners will advance to the world championships next fall.
The chili cook-off will be divided into three categories: red chili, chili verde, and salsa. Each category will be judged individually, and cooks must abide by competition rules fi they hope to advance in the competition.
A restaurant chili challenge will also be held, featuring 15 local restuarants in a best judge category and a people’s choice.
The Great Lakes Annual Chili Cook-Off serves as a fundraiser for 2 local charities: the Penrickton Center for Blind Children and Habitat for Humanity Western Wayne County. Participants can donate a dollar for a sample of chili or a $4 per bowl.
