The 17th Annual Mount Vernon-Lisbon Chili Cookoff is on Saturday, October 14, 2023. As in years passed, the event will take place in the 100 block of 1st East, Mount Vernon.

The event features 25-30 teams making chili on-site. The cooking will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the public invited to buy samples of some of the best chili in Eastern Iowa from 4 to 7 p.m. The announcement and awarding of prizes will take place at or about 6:45 p.m.

Chili samples in biodegradable cups are available for a 25-sample “passport” card for $20. Individual chili samples are $1 each. Beer, soda and water are available for purchase, as are grilled cheese and grilled peanut butter sandwiches. Admission to the event is free.

This event has been growing every year since its inception. This year we offer two categories plus the return of the People’s Choice. This is always a great way to try chili, support a local non-profit and socialize with friends and family!

Sue Margheim, Event Chair

Also scheduled is a Bags Tournament starting at 2 p.m. Those interested in signing up for the bags tournament are asked to contact Aaron Truitt at [email protected] or sign up at the event.

If interested in bringing a team to this event, an electronic sign up form is accessible here.

About the Mount Vernon-Lisbon Community Development Group

The Mount Vernon-Lisbon Community Development Group exists to improve the social and economic well-being of Mount Vernon and Lisbon by capitalizing on their unique identity, assets and character. Mount Vernon was selected as a Main Street community in 2008, and practices economic development within the context of historic preservation.

About Main Street

The Main Street Approach is a copyrighted process of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.  The Program has been used in Iowa since 1986 with a total of 56 communities having participated.  Mount Vernon was selected as a Main Street community on March 4, 2008 by the State of Iowa, after submitting a comprehensive application and presenting to a select board of reviewers.