A local group of cigar enthusiasts look to spice things up in the downtown Chillicothe area this weekend, while at the same time helping area children have a great Christmas.
The Cigar Band Inc. will host its annual Chili Fest on Saturday, September 29th. It begins at noon and runs until about 3:00 p.m. at the courtyard of the Majestic Theatre on Second Street.
Cigar Band member Todd Bost says Chili Fest features teams of four as they work to create the best pot of chili, and a trophy awaits the team the does.
"The way it works is you get your team together, you show up on site, and you're allowed to start cooking at 9:00 a.m.," said Bost. "Everything has to be done on site. At noon, we start bringing in the public for the taste."
Attendees get into the event for just $5.00 and that includes all the chili you can eat. Children 12 and under get in for free.
The event also offers live music with performances from Matt Salyers and Ben True and the Basement Collective.
Pepsi will be there to provide something to wash all the chili down, and Classic Brands will be there too in case you’d like something with a little more kick than soda.
It's not to late to enter to compete in Chili Fest. Todd says new entries will be accepted until the morning of the event.
If you'd like more information, visit the Chilli Fest facebook page HERE
Proceeds raised from Chili Fest are donated to Rock for Tots, a rock music-centered fundraiser held each year to provide Christmas gifts to area children.