Good News For Next Month's Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff
The Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff is one of my most anticipated events of the year. It’s also one of the most exciting days, as the Winter Magic lights are officially turned on, getting everyone in the spirit of Christmas, albeit a tad early. This year’s installment figures to be a huge help and benefit for the people and areas which were devastated by the historic flooding from Helene.
It was just announced that a portion of the proceeds from the 2024 Chili Cookoff will benefit Mountain Ways Foundation—a nonprofit organization founded by Joe and Cassie Baker who currently own several businesses in Gatlinburg, including Ole Smoky Moonshine. Mountain Ways is the same one that Sevier County treasure, Dolly Parton, pledged $1 million dollars toward last week.
I’ve already written a preview of what’s in store for this year’s Chili Cookoff, but to reiterate, it will be on Thursday, November 7. Tickets are $25, and the event will have plenty of unique chili offerings, in addition to live music performed by the indie folk band, TopHouse. For $50, you can be a VIP with early access to the chili and drinks that will be offered at the competition.
People are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance of the big show to kick off the spectacular winter season in Gatlinburg, stock full of good chili to boot. The popularity of the event is only getting stronger, as it’s now in its 35th year of delighting locals and tourists alike. The festival begins at 5 P.M., but you can score early access at 4 P.M. as part of the VIP experience.
Again, I can’t think of a more anticipated event like the Chili Cookoff and the kickoff of Winter Magic. The only other one that supersedes its grandeur is obviously the New Year’s Eve Celebration, in my opinion, which I had the pleasure of attending for the first time last year. And let me tell you, it was an absolute blast! (Yes, I had that one teed up.)
Thank you for reading the latest positive news from my home in the popular tourist town of Gatlinburg. Stay tuned for more news, more events, and more personal stories and tips that I hope can help you with your own visit to this beautiful area. I appreciate your support and interest in subscribing to my publication!