After a three-year COVID-19 hiatus, the annual chili cook-off tradition returned to Wilton with a bang. 

Two dozen community members gathered Feb. 11 at the Wilton Collaborative Space at 21 Gregg St. for the event, which encourages chefs in the community to make their best meat or vegetarian chili while local residents judge the dishes. From sweet and savory to fiery, eight contestants entered their recipes into this year’s competition, each adding their own unique twist on the classic American dish. Chefs also had the opportunity to try and review their fellow contestants’ recipes. 

Wilton Community Center President Donna Crane said she’s excited to bring back a Wilton tradition that promotes friendly, yet fierce competition. 

“People are competitive about chili,” said Crane. "Chili cook-offs get more people than potlucks, which is interesting.”

During the cook-off, attendees were handed scorecards and were asked to review each chili based on aroma, appearance and taste. Many residents tried little samples of all eight entries. After tasting every chili, Wilton resident David McBee said the savory ones were his favorite. 

“They are all good, but this one is a little too spicy for me,” said McBee.

For some, the annual chili cook-off symbolized more than just a friendly competition. Wilton resident and local foodie Kelly Gibson said food-related events like the chili cook-off  promote unity and peace in the community, and she encourages Wilton to have more of them.

“I think it’s important for a town like Wilton that fights so much to have events like this to alleviate our differences,” she said.

In the meat category, DJ Garcia took third place and John Babb second, with David and Calvin Raymond taking home the gold for their signature chili. In the vegetarian category, Gary Nielsen took second place, and Donna Crane secured the most votes. Each winner took home a bouquet of flowers, and were applauded by community members. 

Following the event, community members expressed interest in hosting more food-related events in Wilton, including more chili cook-offs and competitions for the best barbecue. Given the community support, Crane said she’s excited to keep the chili cook-off tradition going for years to come, and she welcomes new food traditions. 

“We are rebuilding and it feels great,” said Crane. “It’s fun to be a part of the community tradition.”

]]>