KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Officials with the Kalamazoo Downtown Partnership (KDP) have announced the return of both the Downtown Kalamazoo Chili Cook-Off.
Downtown Kalamazoo’s Annual Chili Cook-Off is a free outdoor community event taking place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, February 27.
For the past 16 years, it has been an annual tradition to explore downtown, sample chili recipes, and visit new and familiar stores and restaurants.
According to officials, with the ongoing pandemic in mind, the Kalamazoo Downtown Partnership and community partners have turned the Chili Cook-Off into an outdoor event with tents set up throughout downtown.
Officials say that to provide the safest experience possible, the S. Kalamazoo Mall will be closed from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. during the event to allow more walk space. Participants must wear masks when approaching a tent and follow all directional signage.
In addition, commemorative tasting spoons are making a return at $5 each. Participants can pre-order their spoons online at this link, or purchase the day of at any of the three information tents. Those tents are located at the corner of South St./Kalamazoo Mall, Michigan Ave./Kalamazoo Mall, and Portage St./Michigan Ave.
Disposable spoons will not be offered this year.
While tasting chili, the community can text “CHILI” to 59925 and rate the chili. Winners are announced after all the chili is gone and results have been tallied.
Additional Chili Cook-Off details can be viewed at this link.
Downtown Kalamazoo Restaurant Week:
In a related matter, the KDP announced the return of Winter Restaurant Week, as well. Details on that can be found here.
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