EAST BRIDGEWATER — The smell of delicious chili and chowder, loud music and the roar of hundreds of motorcycles will again fill the air at the East Bridgewater Commercial Club.
The club’s 28th annual ChiliChowda Festival is set for Saturday, Sept. 30, from noon to 6 p.m.
Thousands are expected to show up for the event to enjoy live music, cold beer and, of course, amazing chili and chowder.
The event draws an average of 1,500 to 4,000 people each year, according to Club President Aron Danielson.
“We expect between 2,000 to 3,000 people to attend throughout the day this year,” he said.
How much does it cost to attend?
They will come out to sample the food and cast their ballots for their favorite chili and chowder, with unlimited samples for a $20 admission fee.
“I have been a member for 29 years, my first year as president, and I can’t remember a time it not being a great social event to catch up with old friends and acquaintances,” Danielson said,
“Everybody goes to it,” he said. “Anybody who’s anybody attends.”
Under large event tents, the chili and chowder competitors will serve sample cups of their best-tasting entries.
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Who are the contestants?
Returning contestants this year, include BoBo’s Chili and Angry Joe’s Chili, who came in first and second, respectively, in last year’s competition.
Seafood and Cones of Raynham, and Don Bailey will be dishing up the chowder.
Toys for Smiles will be offering both chili and chowder.
It’s first-come, first-served for samples, so organizers recommend that you arrive early to get your share of samples.
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How are the winners chosen?
Attendees can vote for the best chili and chowder at the festival. There will be three winners in the individual category and three winners for restaurant entries. The winners will be announced between 5 and 6 p.m.
What other food will there be?
For festival-goers looking for something more to chew on, there will be burgers, hot dogs and Italian sausages for sale.
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What about drinks?
Coors Light, White Claw, and mixed drinks will also be for sale to help wash it all down.
Jewelry, T-shirts and more for sale
About 25 vendors will be selling their homemade items, including jewelry, T-shirts and sweatshirts, crocheted stuffed animals and more.
Show and Shine motorcycle competition
The “Show and Shine Motorcycle Competition,” featuring unique motorcycles, will take place throughout the day. “Bring your custom bikes,” Danielson said.
What’s the deadline for chefs and vendors?
There is still time for chefs, (chili or chowder, individual or restaurant), and vendors to enter.
Vendors should submit their application by Sept. 23 by emailing Contestant Chairperson and Treasurer Peggy Ferreira at etherpeg@gmail.com.
This festival is the biggest fundraiser for the non-profit club, according to Danielson. “Without this event, we wouldn’t exist,” he said.
For more information, visit www.ebcc.club
Admission
The cost of entry is $20 at the gate. Tickets can be purchased for $15 in advance at the club, 1 Nielsen Ave. Cash, credit and debit cards will be accepted.
Free parking
Organizers advise festival-goers to drive straight to the free satellite parking lot at 140 Laurel St. Shuttle buses will run throughout the day to bring visitors back and forth to the club.
Live music
Live music will be performed by the band SouthBound.
Event is for ages 21 and older
This event is for ages 21 and older, so bring ID. No children or pets will be allowed on the grounds.
Rain date
In the event of rain, the festival will be held on Sunday, Oct. 1, or Saturday, Oct. 7.
Staff writer Kathy Bossa can be reached by email at kbossa@enterprisenews.com. Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Enterprise today.
