20th Annual Blues 'n' Buffett Chili Challenge

The Blues 'n' Buffett Chili Challenge is a friendly competition between the Isle of Iowa Parrot Head Club and the Linn County Blues Society to raise money for local Cedar Rapids charities.

Since 2001, members of each club have challenged one another with their finest chili recipes and with colorful decorations and costumes. In the first year, nearly $540 was raised; since then the event has grown. Last years event raised over $10,000 for the selected charities and in the 19 years of the event’s existence, over $128,000 has been raised and donated to local charities.

The public is encouraged to attend, taste the various chilies (more than 25 are anticipated) and vote for their favorite. The club receiving the most People’s Choice votes will receive a plaque and their club’s charity will receive 51% of the proceeds from the event. The runner-up club will receive 49% of the proceeds for their charity.

There will be Celebrity Judges, including local television and radio personalities, to taste and vote on the Overall Best Chili as well as Best Chili in one of four categories. The club receiving a majority of votes for the Best Chili from the judges receives a traveling trophy and bragging rights for their club.

A Huge Silent Auction will be featured during the event. Payment is expected at the end of the auction; cash, checks and credit cards will be accepted. Monies raised from the auction will be included in the donations being made to the featured charities.