The 22nd Annual Chili Crawl kicks off Oct 19th at 3:30 p.m. at Johnny Kaw's Yard Bar, in the heart of Aggieville. This event in Manhattan, KS is full of fun and flavors!
If there’s one thing we know how to do in Manhattan, Kansas, it’s creating unforgettable community events that bring people together, and the 22nd Optimist Chili Crawl is no exception! Get ready for a day filled with rich, hearty bowls of chili, good company, and an all-around good time. Whether you're a local or just visiting "The Little Apple," the Chili Crawl is a can’t-miss event for anyone who loves fall festivities and supporting local causes.
What is the Optimist Chili Crawl?
For over two decades, the Optimist Club of Manhattan has hosted the annual Chili Crawl, where participants tour local restaurants and businesses in Aggieville to sample some of the best chili recipes around.
Each stop offers its own unique take on this classic comfort food, making it an exciting culinary adventure. Plus, all proceeds go to support local youth programs through the Optimist Club, so not only do you get to enjoy a tasty day out, but you’re also giving back to the community!
When and Where?
Mark your calendars, because the 22nd Optimist Chili Crawl is happening on Saturday, October 28th, 2024. The event kicks off at 1:00 PM in Downtown Manhattan, where participants will gather at the starting location and embark on their chili journey through local businesses. Each stop offers a different twist on traditional chili, and trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat!
What to Expect
There’s nothing quite like walking around Aggieville with friends and neighbors. Whether you like your chili spicy, mild, or smooth, there’s something for everyone. With each stop, you'll vote for your favorite chili, helping to crown the Best Chili of the Year! And if you're like me, you'll want to pace yourself because the portions are generous, and you’ll want to make sure you try them all.
Why You Should Join the Optimist Chili Crawl
Aside from the obvious (hello, delicious chili!), the Chili Crawl is more than just a food festival. It’s about community. You’ll be meeting local business owners, mingling with fellow chili enthusiasts, and experiencing the heart of downtown Manhattan. Plus, you get to be part of an event that directly benefits youth programs here in our Little Apple.
Here are a few reasons why you should make sure to attend:
- Support Local Causes: The Optimist Club is dedicated to helping youth in our community, and this event raises money for those programs. Every bite of chili is going toward a good cause.
- Discover New Restaurants: The crawl features a variety of local restaurants and businesses that participate each year, so it’s a great opportunity to discover hidden gems or revisit old favorites.
- Fun with Friends and Family: This is the perfect event to gather friends and family. Grab your chili-loving crew, wear your comfiest fall outfit, and enjoy the day together.
- Bragging Rights: You get to vote on the best chili in Manhattan and trust me, these chefs take it seriously! It’s a fun competition with some serious flavor.
How to Participate
Participating in the Chili Crawl is super easy and affordable. You can purchase tickets in advance online for $20. With your ticket, you'll receive a map of the participating locations and a scorecard to rate the chili at each stop. Don’t forget to bring your appetite because you’ll be getting a generous serving of chili at each location.
Insider Tips for Making the Most of the Chili Crawl
As a seasoned Chili Crawl attendee, here are a few tips to help you get the most out of the event:
- Come Hungry: It might sound obvious, but with so many amazing chili options, you’re going to want to make room to sample them all. Skip breakfast if you have to!
- Dress for the Weather: Fall in Kansas can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers is best. You'll be walking between stops, so comfortable shoes are a must.
- Make it a Social Event: The more, the merrier! Grab your friends, make it a group outing, and turn the day into a mini chili competition within your own crew.
- Stay Hydrated: All that chili can be spicy, so don’t forget to grab water between stops. Many locations offer drinks for purchase, and some even have themed cocktails to complement the chili tastings.
The Best Chili in Manhattan, KS
At the end of the day, once you’ve sampled all the chili you can handle, the votes are tallied, and the Best Chili in Manhattan is crowned. It’s always a close competition, as our local chefs put their hearts (and spices) into every batch. Keep an eye on social media to see who takes home the title this year!
And don’t worry if you didn’t get enough chili during the crawl—many of the restaurants continue serving their signature chili throughout the fall, so you can always come back for more!
Supporting Local Matters
What I love most about events like the Optimist Chili Crawl is how they highlight the best of Manhattan: our community spirit, our love for good food, and our dedication to supporting one another. The businesses and restaurants participating in the Chili Crawl are local staples, and events like this allow them to showcase their skills while bringing us all together.
So, whether you're a chili connoisseur or just looking for a fun fall activity, the Optimist Chili Crawl is the perfect way to celebrate the season and support a great cause.
As we welcome the cooler weather and the changing leaves, I can’t think of a better way to spend a Saturday than enjoying bowls of chili with friends and family in the heart of downtown Manhattan. The 22nd Optimist Chili Crawl is sure to be a day filled with delicious food, good company, and a whole lot of fun.
Be sure to grab your tickets early, invite your friends, and join the festivities. This is one Manhattan tradition that never disappoints, and trust me—you’ll leave with a full belly and a happy heart. I’ll see you there, spoon in hand!
This year the participating restaurants are:
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Cold Stone Creamery
- Dirty Dawg Saloon w/ Guero Loco
- Full Circle Diner + Cocktails
- Goolsby’s
- Johnny Kaw's Yard Bar
- Kite's Bar & Grill
- Mi Tierra Restaurant & Cantina
- Nico's Little Italy
- O'Malley's Alley
- Porter's Bar & Deli
- RCPD Substation
For more details on the 22nd Optimist Chili Crawl and to purchase your tickets, check out their official page or follow along on social media for updates!
