Oktoberfest and Chili Cook Off

The Oktoberfest and Chili Cook Off in Peru, Miami County, Indiana, is a one-day event held on October 11, 2025, at the Riverwalk location. It features a festive blend of traditional German culture and culinary competition, focusing on German food, beer, and wine along with chili cooking. Key activities include:

• German folk dancers performing traditional dances.
• Weiner dog races providing light-hearted family-friendly entertainment.
• A Lederhosen contest showcasing traditional German attire.
• Horse-drawn wagon rides offering scenic views along the Riverwalk.
• A chili cook-off competition with an entry fee to participate.
• A boutique crawl highlighting local vendors and shops.

The atmosphere is celebratory and community-oriented, combining Oktoberfest’s German roots—characterized by lively music, dancing, hearty food, and cultural contests—with a competitive and social chili cook-off aspect. The event charges an admission fee and appeals to both locals and visitors interested in food, cultural heritage, and fun activities outside.

Regarding the schedule, while exact times are not specified, typical Oktoberfest and chili cook-off events usually run from late morning into the evening, allowing attendees to enjoy food and drinks, watch or participate in contests and races, and explore boutique shops during daylight hours. The chili cook-off competition likely occurs in a central pavilion or designated cook-off area near the Riverwalk.

The event has a strong community tradition in Miami County, reflecting a local embrace of both German heritage and America's chili cooking culture. Its founding is connected to fostering local culture, tourism, and communal gathering, combining classic Oktoberfest elements with distinctive, regionally popular activities like the chili competition and miscellaneous local festivities.

In summary, the Oktoberfest and Chili Cook Off in Peru offers:

• German food, beer, and folk entertainment.
• Chili cook-off competition with a fee.
• Family-friendly races and contests.
• Wagon rides and boutique shopping.
• A lively atmosphere along the scenic Riverwalk in Miami County.

For more details, the Miami County Tourism website or local event contacts can provide updates on specific event times and participation requirements. The contact phone number for inquiries is (765) 472-1855.