Chili Cookoff Festival

Upcoming Events at Chili Cookoff Festival

• 20th Annual Chili Cookoff - Uptown Mount Vernon

  The 20th Annual Mount Vernon Chili Cookoff returns to Historic 1st Street on Saturday, October 24, 2026! Celebrate two decades of chili, friendly competition, and fall fun in uptown Mount Vernon. Teams will cook their chili from scratch throughout the day before the streets open for public tasting from 3:00–5:30 PM, with winners announced at 5:45 PM. For 20 years, Chili Cookoff has brought together residents, visitors, businesses, and competitors for one of Mount Vernon’s favorite fall traditions. This milestone year, we’re turning up the heat with a goal of 30 competing teams! 🔥 Make a day of it! Local businesses will join the celebration with “spicy” and “hot” specials, promotions, and activities throughout the day. Come early to shop and explore, grab your tasting spoon at 3:00 PM, and stick around to dine and enjoy Mount Vernon after the Cookoff. Saturday, October 24 | Historic 1st Street, Mount Vernon, Iowa 🌶️ Public Tasting: 3:00–5:30 PM 🏆 Awards: 5:45 PM 2026-09-28 17:45:00 -0500

  10/24

  3:00 p.m.

  Chili Cookoff Festival

  Mount Vernon
  5