Madison’s 20th Annual Downtown (Small-Town) Chili Cook-Off & CASI GA State Championship Open Cook-Off brings a full day of chili, music, shopping, food, and fall fun to Town Park. Chili teams compete in two categories, with public chili sampling beginning at 12:30 p.m. Visitors can purchase sampling wristbands at two gates starting at noon, sample the entries, and vote for their favorite chili in the People’s Choice competition.

The festival opens at 10:00 a.m. with live music on the Toe-Tappin’ Music Stage on Second Street. The Marketplace on the Great Lawn features seasonal locally grown and produced foods, fall plants, handcrafted goods, arts, and crafts from regional artists. Food vendors also begin serving festival favorites at 10:00 a.m. on Second Street.

Chili sampling runs from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., or until the chili runs out. Sampling wristbands cost $5 and include a wristband, spoon, and People’s Choice ballot. Wristbands are available beginning at noon at the Jefferson Street gate tent and at the corner of Second Street and Jefferson Street. No presales are available, and cash and credit cards are accepted.

Guests can relax in the park, enjoy live entertainment hosted by Jamie Hood, explore the artists and farmers market, and enjoy family-friendly activities. Beer is also available for purchase at the Gazebo Terrace from Amici.

The day concludes with the chili awards at approximately 3:30 p.m. at the Pavilion Stage. Open Chili prizes include $400 for first place, $200 for second place, and $100 for third place, along with trophies and gifts. CASI winners receive official Downtown Chili Cook-Off trophies, CASI points, and gifts. Additional awards recognize Showmanship and the People’s Choice winners.