It’s Chili Cook-Off planning time again at the Heartland Heritage Museum and Gallery in Checotah. This year will be another fun-filled time with family and friends and with a new mascot. The event will be held Saturday, February 24.

Last year, at the 15th annual event guests were invited to “name the chili pepper” as they checked in at the door. Several suggestions were submitted before the evening was over.

After much deliberation over several great names, the Chili Cook-Off Committee decided on a clever and catchy name submitted by Shannon Dobbs of Dakota Star Ranch. The Chili Cook-Off mascot will be named “El Picasso!”

In 2023, El Picasso was spotted “Just Chili’n” while stirring the chili pot. Keep an eye out to see what El Picasso will be doing in 2024 at the 16th Annual Heartland Heritage Museum and Gallery Chili Cook-Off.

You definitely won’t want to miss this year’s cook-off. Applications to enter your chili in the cook-off can be picked up at the Heartland Heritage Museum & Gallery at 116 N. Broadway. Cash prizes will be awarded.

There will be a Live Auction as always. Donated items for the Live Auction can be dropped off at the Heartland.

Checotah Gun & Pawn has donated a nice set of “His & Hers Pistols) this year. Tickets can be purchased at the Heartland Heritage, Checotah Gun & Pawn, Checotah Perk and the McIntosh County Democrat. Tickets are $1 each or 5 for $6.

An evening of hilarity and fun is in store for everyone. Feel free to call Heartland Heritage Director Iris Park at 405-570-3569 for more information or questions.