Chili Cook-Off

The Vienna Township Neighborhood Watch started the Vienna Chili Cook-Off, which was originally held in April and October of each year at the Vienna Township Volunteer Fire Department. The first chili cook-off event was held in April of 2003.

Past President Roseann Kennedy recalls the origin of the Vienna Chili Cook-Off:

"It was a challenge by then Police Chief Dave Ovesny, to Fire Chief Richard Brannon to see who could make the best chili. It was held in the Fire Station meeting room, not out in the bays. Only the fire and police departments made chili. People tasted each one and voted for their favorite."

The April chili cook-off was replaced by an Amish dinner in 2010, leaving only the October date, usually Columbus Day, for a chili cook-off. 

The chili was made and donated by volunteers in the community. Judges were selected to test the chili before the cook-off to determine a winner in the following categories: Mild, Medium, and Hot.

After the judging, community members were invited to purchase chili and dine in the firetruck bays at the fire department.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 chili cook off was held as a drive-thru event at the Vienna Volunteer Fire Department. The event resumed as an in-person event in 2021.

The final chili cook-off that was held by the Vienna Township Neighborhood Watch was on October 9, 2023.

Contributors: Shirley Wittenauer, Roseann Kennedy, & Christine Novicky