Upcoming Event
Poultney Chili Cook-Off 2026
September 26, 2026
Get ready for one of Poultney’s favorite fall traditions! The 36th Annual Poultney Rotary Chili Cook-Off returns on Saturday, September 26, 2026, filling downtown Poultney with delicious chili, live music, family activities, a silent auction, and plenty of community fun.
For more than 30 years, the Chili Cook-Off has brought residents and visitors together to sample creative chili recipes and enjoy a festive afternoon on Main Street. Hosted by the Poultney Rotary Club, the event also serves as the club’s largest annual fundraiser, helping support its ongoing work in the community.
Come hungry, grab your tasting mug, and see which team earns your vote!
Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Chili Tasting: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Awards: 1:30 PM
Location: Downtown Poultney / Main Street
Hosted by: Poultney Rotary Club
In addition to plenty of chili to sample, visitors can enjoy live music from EnerJazz Big Band, browse a silent auction along Main Street, and bring the kids to enjoy activities provided by Wonderfeet Museum. The event’s famous Chili Cook-Off T-shirts will also be back for another year.
Think your chili has what it takes? The Poultney Rotary Club welcomes teams to enter the Chili Cook-Off, and there is no cost to register a team.
Cooker registration and check-in begins at 8:30 AM, with teams required to be set up by 10:00 AM. Organizers recommend preparing approximately 10–12 gallons of chili, with more than 700 attendees anticipated.
Teams are provided approximately 10 feet of space, along with a table and ladle. Cookers should bring their own chairs, booth decorations, and overhead covering if needed.
Judging includes both a three-person judging panel and a popular vote, with $1,000 in prizes up for grabs:
Participants should review the complete event rules and regulations before attending.
Bring your appetite and head to downtown Poultney on Saturday, September 26, for the 36th Annual Poultney Rotary Chili Cook-Off. Chili tasting runs from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by the announcement of this year’s winners at 1:30 PM.
Whether you’re competing for chili bragging rights or simply coming to taste the entries, enjoy the music, and explore the festivities, it’s a great way to spend a fall Saturday in Poultney.
Want to learn more about local events? Check out our events page.