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.

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 on their favorite."

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

Currently, the Vienna Chili Cook-Off is held annually on Columbus Day and dates back to at least March 29, 2004.[1] The chili is made and donated by volunteers in the community. Judges are 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 are 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.

Contributors: Shirley Wittenauer, Roseann Kennedy, & Christine Novicky