Every fall for more than 33 years, downtown Poultney has hosted the annual Chili Cook Off. This year, the Poultney Rotary Club is thrilled to announce that the event will be filling the streets once again on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

In addition to the Chili Cook Off competition and tasting, EnerJazz Big Band will play, a silent auction will line the center of Main Street and the famous Chili T- shirts will be back. The Poultney Pub will be offering beer in your own Chili Cook Off glass for a nominal fee, and this year’s event will include the Rolling Rooster food truck.

There will be $1,000 in prizes awarded. There is no charge for cookers. Anyone interested in entering as a chili cooker should reach out to Rotarian Craig at [email protected] or text 518-321-6354.

The organizers said they were thankful for the long list of sponsors and friends that have already donated money and raffle items. The list of these sponsors starts with strong support from Bhatka Spirits, Donna Johnson Physical Therapy and Realty One Group Lakes and Homes, the major event sponsors.

The 33rd annual Chili Cook Off serves as the Rotary Club’s largest fundraiser and it is businesses and individuals in Poultney that make the club’s ongoing work possible.

Poultney Rotary Club was instrumental in providing scholarships to five worthy Poultney graduates this past spring, contributions to various summer recreation programs, as well as the annual back to school drive. Some other highlights of the club’s  activities include Green Up Day, downtown Poultney holiday decorations and activities, Josh the Otter (kindergarten water safety program), food shelf support and various other community service activities.