Marion Downtown Chili Championship

he 38th annual Marion Downtown Chili Championship is moved to the third Saturday in September.

Enjoy some great Chili from our Chili Teams, LIVE Music, Vendors, great food from our Food Trucks located on Broad St. and all of our Downtown Eateries. You can also grab a drink at one of our Beer Gardens on Main St.

Chili Prizes will include:
1st - 3rd Place
Chili Wimp
People's Choice

In addition to the Chili Cook-off, LIVE entertainment includes “Soul Sandwich”, “The Great Big Hug”, and “ZZ Top Notch: A Tribute to ZZ Top” live on the Main Stage. Below is a brief description of each of our bands:

Soul Sandwich:
Based in Smyth County, Va & founded in 2012 the band showcases Gospel Blues, Blues Rock, & Christian Rock. Join us for an evening filled with fun and fellowship form Veteran musicians Soul Sandwich!

The Great Big Hug:
The Great Big Hug is a Roots Rock & Blues Fusion band from Southwest Virginia. These guys have been together for years, in some way or another. They've found a way to bring together each of their musical tastes to form a groove of epic proportions. "The Great Big Hug is happy to be chosen by Bristol Hard Rock Hotel & Casino for their 2023-2024 Advertising Campaign". This is a show you don't want to miss!

"ZZ Top Notch: A Tribute to ZZ Top"
If you enjoy the music of "That Li'l Ol' Band from Texas" then you'll love ZZ Top Notch! "The members of the band comprise over 100 years of professional experience performing Classic Rock music. Established in 2022, ZZ Top Notch has performed to crowds that are hungry for the experience of ZZ Top style of Texas Blues & Rock." So dress up like a "Sharp Dressed Man" with your "Cheap Sunglasses" and we'll see you there!!