1. Eligibility – The competition is open to both amateur and professional chefs. All are welcome to compete.
2. Definition of “Chili” – Entries may be traditional or creative. Chili must include chili peppers but may be made with or without beans.
3. Registration – All participants must complete and return a pre-registration form in advance, due no later than September 8th, 2025. Forms can be submitted:
● Online: www.vtnorthcountry.org
● Mail: PO Box 243, Newport, VT
● In-person: Newport Welcome Center
● Email: Director@VTNorthCountry.org
4. Chili Preparation
● Chili must be fully cooked, hot, and ready to serve upon arrival.
● Contestants are responsible for all setup items including tables, tents, heat sources, and
signage. Please reach out to the Chamber if you need assistance with any items.
● The event will provide serving cups and spoons for public tastings.
5. Setup & Timeline
● Setup begins at 11:00 AM.

● Be fully prepared and ready to serve by 11:30 AM, as attendees begin arriving early.
● The official competition begins at 12:00 PM and concludes at 2:00 PM.
● Votes will be tallied and awards handed out by 4:00 PM same day.
6. Booth Assignments
Booth locations will be pre-assigned and mapped by the event coordinator. All booths will be
located on Main Street.
7. Serving Requirements
● Each contestant must prepare a minimum of 5 gallons of chili.
● Only one recipe may be served to ensure consistency for public judging.
● Participants must maintain safe serving temperatures and follow standard food safety
practices. The food temperature should be at or above 135°F (57°C) at all times during
serving.
● Chili may only be served to guests who have purchased an official tasting spoon.
8. Judging Process
● This is a People’s Choice competition.
● Each contestant will receive a contestant number for ballot purposes, but should
prominently display their name or team at their booth to help tasters remember your
chili when voting.
● Attendees vote for their favorite chili using a ballot, which they return to the judges’
stand.
● The chili with the most votes wins. In the event of a tie, a blind taste-off will determine
the winner.
9. Awards & Recognition
● Winners will be announced on-site shortly after voting concludes.
● Awards include a Trophy and public recognition.
● Each of the the first 15 contestants to register will receive up to $100 rebate to help offset ingredient costs.
10. Cleanup Responsibilities
● Participants must thoroughly clean their booth areas by the end of the event.
No materials or equipment may be left behind.

11. Marketing Tip
Please display your name or team name prominently at your booth. This helps tasters
remember your entry when voting.