Annual Chili Fest Returns To Zanesville

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – Autumn brings falling temperatures and the desire for a bowl of piping hot chili.

This weekend, the Nelson T. Gant Foundation will be holding their Annual Chili Fest fundraiser that offers old-fashioned warmth, while raising funds for a historic cause.

“This is our 21st year of doing the Chili Fest,” Nelson T. Gant Foundation President Todd E. Ware said. “We’re having it on Friday. Friday at 11 O’clock until 3 O’clock. Saturday as well. 11 O’clock to 3 O’clock. Friday we do deliveries to various organizations who order the chili. Saturday will be the time that you can come in and eat inside. But Friday, if you wanted just to pick up, you can pick up one meal Friday. Just come in, walk in and we’ll have that ready for you as well.” 

Ware said the proceeds go toward the museum’s maintenance and utility bills and the chili is made from a recipe that has been handed down from his grandmother.

“I like to keep the meat in it chunky. I like a lot of beans in it, a lot of vegetables in it, it will be hearty and it will be great. And very tasty, yes. They get a bowl of chili. A nice big bowl of chili, some crackers, a Cheryl’s cookie and some potato chips and all the trimmings that go with it. And it’s really delicious,” Ware said. 

The event will take place this Friday and Saturday at the Gant House, located at 1845 West Main Street in Zanesville. You can place your order ahead of time online at nelsontgant-foundation.org for $10 dollars per meal or $15 for a quart. Or you can call Wanda Morgan at (740) 297-5558.