Oktoberfest Featuring Award-Winning Chili, Lowriders

Thursday, October 4, 2018

Competitive cooks are firing up their stoves and gathering their spoons to serve up some award-winning chili on Saturday, Oct. 6.

The Noel Betterment Association will host a Chili Cookoff as part of Oktoberfest on Main Street, next to Arvest Bank.

The association is taking on the event this year, which was formerly hosted by the McDonald County Chamber of Commerce on an annual basis.

With a change in venue, organizers are adding a variety of events to attract McDonald County neighbors and visitors to the event, said Noel Betterment Association treasurer Denae Murphy.

A bouncy house for children will be set up from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with the chili cookoff set from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Noel Betterment Association and the McDonald County Chamber of Commerce will sell bowls for the attendees to taste the chili and use for People's Choice judging, Murphy said.

A panel of judges will award first, second and third place honors, with a trophy given to the top three teams in the mild-to-medium division and the top three teams in the hot-to-extra-hot division.

Judging is at 1 p.m. The People's Choice and Best Booth will conclude at 2 p.m. Winners will be announced on the main stage at 2:30 p.m.

Chili cookoff participants should preregister. Participants will not be charged to enter the contest. However, donations are welcome and will benefit the Noel Betterment Association, Murphy said.

Entertainers will be on hand and provide live music throughout the day.

In conjunction with Oktoberfest, Sparks in the Ozarks 13 will take place this weekend at River Ranch Resort in Noel. The weekend will feature a number of low riders, with a costume contest, legal drag session and spectator hours. Those who wish to participate will be charged a fee.

Murphy said Oktoberfest will offer several different types of events, which organizers hope will attract a crowd.

"We hope to draw residents and a lot of people from out of state," Murphy. "We're excited to be hosting the chili cookoff. We're definitely willing to give it a shot and see how it goes."

The family-friendly fun is great for all, Murphy said, encouraging families to come and enjoy the day.

Vendors also are encouraged to show their items and wares. Murphy said vendors do not pay a participation fee for setup.

"Come, show McDonald County what you make, sell or promote," Murphy said. "Whether you are an individual, business or organization, we hope to see you there."

Those who are interested in signing up for the chili cookoff may register by contacting Murphy at 417-312-7750. Registration deadline is Friday, Oct. 5.

For additional information about either event, call Murphy or email SparksInThe [email protected].

General News on 10/04/2018