Ultimate Tailgate Registration and Details

Ultimate Tailgate Cook-off and Bags Tourney planned for Oct. 28 in Downtown Dixon

}Armchair Quarterback Challenge is new addition this year

The Ultimate Tailgate Cook-off and Bags Tourney is set for Sunday, Oct. 28 from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m at the Beanblossom Parking Lot in Downtown Dixon.

This the 5th Annual cook-off event that features a Chili, Salsa and BBQ cook-off, along with a bags tournament.

"Once a year in the fall, the Beanblossom parking lot becomes a great tailgate festival with lots of chili and great food to eat," DMS Executive Director Josh Albrecht said. "Last year we had some fantastic food being cooked by local chefs.."

Local Grand Detour resident David Nelson stole the show last year with his BBQ that earned him First Place overall in the competition.

The cook-off will be held in the Beanblossom parking lot of River Street from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.  Cooks can enter in three categories: Best Chili, Best Salsa, and Best BBQ. Registration is just $20 and ends Oct. 25. Forms can be found online at www.dixonmainstreet.com or www.facebook.com/dixonmainstreet. 

The contest will have cash prizes for First, Second and Third Place. There also will be awards for People’s Choice and Showmanship. There will be secret judges for the top prizes. Set-up for the event will begin at 8 a.m. as all cooks are required to prepare their entire chili at the event because of Health Department guidelines.

The day also features the annual Bags Tourney, with registration for the tournament starting at 10:30 a.m. Cost is $20 per team and prizes will be awarded. A new feature this year is the Armchair Quarterback Challenge.

"The Armchair Quarterback Challenge will see how well our local wannabe quarterbacks can throw the ol' pigskin while seated in a comfy chair," Albrecht said. "We think it will be a fun contest that the crowd will have a good time with."

And, of course, a tailgate wouldn't be complete without football as we will have the big games on the outdoor television for everyone to enjoy.

Admission to the Chili Cook-off is $3 per person and admission includes tasting. The event is open to all ages. For more information on the Chili Cook-off, call Dixon Main Street at 815-288-2308.

The Beanblossom Parking Lot will be closed to cars starting at 6 a.m. Sunday morning to accommodate the Chili Cook-off. The cook-off is sponsored by The Stables, Drifters, Alley Loop, Royal Palms, and Zero's.