It’s Marion’s 38th Annual Chili Cook-Off!
Join us in Downtown Marion for live music, vendors, food trucks, and of course, the most popular chili championship in Southwest Virginia! Bring a lawn chair and an empty tummy, and be prepared to vote for the ultimate Chili Champion.
The Marion Chili Cook-Off is Saturday September 21, 2024
For close to four decades, the town of Marion, VA has been coming together for community, friendly competition, and chili! After many years of summer events, the Marion Downtown Revitalization Committee decided to take advantage of cooler weather and hold the annual Chili Cook-Off in the fall. The 38th annual Marion Chili Cook-Off will take place the third Saturday in September.
So make plans to be on Main Street in downtown Marion Saturday September 21st! The fun begins with live music on stage at 3:00pm, and continues into the night with artisans and vendors, beer gardens, and of course…. over a dozen teams competing to win Best Chili!
The 2024 Chili Cook-Off Music Lineup
The Cook-Off is known for its live entertainment, including local favorites and nationally touring bands. Marion entertainment includes “Soul Sandwich”, “The Great Big Hug”, and “ZZ Top Notch: A Tribute to ZZ Top” live on the Main Stage.
Music starts at 3pm with “Soul Sandwich” . At 5pm, local favorites “The Great Big Hug” takes the Main Stage. And wrapping up the evening, “ZZ Top Notch: A Tribute to ZZ Top” kicks off at 7pm. Downtown eateries will offer outside dining and beer gardens, food trucks will provide a food court, and community booths will line Main Street.
Dining at the Cook-Off
Be sure to come hungry to the Cook-Off, as over a dozen teams will be competing to impress you with their culinary skills. Chili Prizes will include: 1st – 3rd Place, the “Chili Wimp” award, and People’s Choice.
While the festival itself is free, you must purchase a bracelet to sample chili. Wristbands are $5 per person, and include unlimited chili samples. All proceeds go towards the Marion Downtown Revitalization Association, which supports a thriving small business community in downtown. Not a fan of chili? You can also dine at one of our local food trucks, or our downtown restaurants and eateries, & beer gardens.
“It’s the perfect time of the year,” added Heath. “With a bit of chill in the air, it’s a great time to enjoy some chili and live music on Main Street. Best of all, admission is free! Bring a lawn chair and five bucks for a wristband to taste all the chili samples and enjoy!”
How to participate in the Chili Cook-Off
To register your team for the Chili Cook-Off, or setup as vendor or Food Truck please email efrazier@marionva.org