Ultimate Tailgate Cook-off and Bags Tourney set for Oct. 20

}Dixon Main Street and United Way of Lee County team up for annual event

The Ultimate Tailgate Cook-off and Bags Tourney is set for Sunday, Oct. 20 from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m at the Beanblossom Parking Lot in Downtown Dixon.

This the 6th Annual cook-off event that features a Chili 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."

The cook-off will be held in the Beanblossom parking lot of River Street from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.  Registration is just $20 and ends Oct. 18. Forms can be found online at www.dixonmainstreet.com or www.facebook.com/dixonmainstreet or by emailing mainst@grics.net. Cash prizes of $300 for First Place, $150 for Second Place and $50 for Third Place. Award for Best Showmanship and People's Choice will also be handed out.  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 following Health Department guidelines.

Other great foods will be on hand as many of the contestants bring additional game-day treats.

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.

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 $5 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.