The Rockford City Market is excited to announce the launch of a brand-new community event, the Rockford Chili Bowl, debuting on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the City Market Pavilion. A portion of proceeds from the Rockford Chili Bowl will benefit Carpenter’s Place, a local nonprofit providing vital services and support to people experiencing homelessness in Rockford.
The Rockford Chili Bowl will bring together local restaurants, chefs, and community members for a day celebrating one of the Midwest’s favorite comfort foods. Guests will enjoy sampling a wide variety of chili styles, with opportunities to vote for a “People’s Choice” award alongside a panel-selected “Judges’ Choice.” In addition to the food, the event will feature family-friendly activities, college football, music, and a festive fall atmosphere in the heart of downtown Rockford.
“As our market season comes to a close, this event feels like a natural extension of what we’re all about,” said Rachel Larson, Executive Director of the Rock River Development Partnership. “We’re thrilled to introduce a family-friendly fall event that highlights our community’s creativity while giving back to Carpenter’s Place and the important work they do in our city.”
Restaurants interested in participating can apply at https://www.rockfordcitymarket.com/eventscalendar/2025/10/18/rockford-chili-bowl-1. Tickets for the Rockford Chili Bowl will also be available at this link.
The RRDP founded and operates the Rockford City Market, the Friday seasonal market, the Saturday North End Market, and The Market Venue at 116 N Madison Street, which houses two event spaces, a food hall, and a shared commercial kitchen. The RRDP works to bring vibrancy to downtown Rockford with a weekly market tradition that draws people to the heart of the City, increases business at downtown shops and restaurants, and serves as an incubator for new businesses.
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