Jackson, Mich. – After a hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, K105.3 – Jackson’s Hit Music Station, has announced the long-awaited return of one of Jackson County’s most beloved events; the annual Chili Cook-Off. This event, which typically took place in February and saw thousands of attendees, will receive a date change and upgrades.
Together, with longtime sponsor Tripp’s Auto Shop, and newest partner: the Jackson DDA, McKibbin Media Group, Inc. announces the “K105.3 Fall Festival & Chili Classic presented by Tripp’s Auto Shop and the Jackson DDA,” set for October 16th, 2021 in the streets of downtown Jackson.
McKibbin Media Group, Inc., the parent company of K105.3, Jackson’s Fox Sports 101.9 FM, NewsTalk 970AM/101.5FM, and 95.9 The Power Cow; organizes other notable events in the area such as the Meckley’s Flavor Fruit Farm Trunk or Treat, and the K105.3 Bridal Fair which is set for Saturday, January 8, 2022 at the American 1 Events Center.
“To bring the Chili Cook-Off to downtown Jackson, and enhance the event with a variety of other activities, will make this a day that the community will not want to miss,” K105.3/McKibbin Media Group President and Owner Katina McKibbin said. “After a long hiatus due to the pandemic, it’s exciting to be able to provide events for our community again. We can’t thank Tripp’s Auto Shop and the Jackson DDA enough for partnering with us to make this event a special one on October 16th.”
The K105.3 & Tripp’s Auto Shop Fall Festival & Chili Classic will include family-friendly fall-themed activities like cornhole and pumpkin giveaways, shopping, live entertainment, and participation from the bars and restaurants in the downtown area.
“It’s good to be back, it’s good to be out and about at events again,” said Phil Tripp, owner of Tripp’s Auto Shop. Barb Tripp chimed in with her husband: “It’s going to be awesome for kids. It’s not just a chili cook-off, it’s a whole festival.”
K105.3 is currently accepting applications for vendors and chili cook-off contestants. “Part of what distinguishes this event is that the food is made on site. Our contestants bring all their fresh ingredients and prepare the chili and salsa from scratch before your eyes,” said McKibbin Media Group Promotions Director and event organizer Ashley Smith. “Businesses, restaurants, individuals, and even schools have a great time competing at this event. I’m excited to bring a whole new level of interest by bringing it to our beautiful downtown and incorporating some family-friendly activities for everybody to enjoy.”
The event will be free admission. Some activities may incur a minor charge. To taste and vote on their favorite chilis and salsas, attendees will be able to purchase a tasting wristband on-site for $5.00 which will also include voting tickets.
Trophies and cash will be awarded for the best chili in several categories, including professional, amateur, school, and more. Chili cook-off contestants are each required to make a minimum of 10 gallons of chili to be eligible for awards.
Those interested in applying to compete in the Chili Cook-Off portion of this event or be a vendor may contact Ashley Smith, Promotions Director, at 517-787-9546 x 204 or asmith@k1053.com. Visit K1053.com/fallfest for details.
Anyone wanting more information on the fall festival activities may reach out to the Downtown Development Authority at (517) 768-6410.
