Nokomis FD hosts annual Oneida County Chili Contest

Photo courtesy of the Nokomis Volunteer Fire Department

Photo courtesy of the Minocqua Fire and Rescue Department

Photos courtesy of the Hazelhurst Fire Department

Posted Monday, March 2, 2026 5:05 am

For the Tomahawk Leader

TOWN OF NOKOMIS – Late last month, the Nokomis Volunteer Fire Department hosted the annual Oneida County Chili Contest.

The event featured a variety of chilis, as well as raffles, hot dogs for the kids, desserts and more.

Raffles proceeds will support Kinship of Tomahawk, Nokomis Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) Senior Dining, Northwoods Veterans Homestead and Nokomis FD.

Contest results are as follows.

Mild category (seven entries): MedEvac, first place; Arbor Vitae, second; Minocqua, third.

Hot (three entries): Arbor Vitae, first place; Nokomis, second; Hazelhurst, third.

Alternative (two entries): Arbor Vitae, first place; Nokomis, second.

White (one entry): Nokomis, first place.

Chairman’s Choice: MedEvac.

Best Presentation: Minocqua.

People’s Choice: Arbor Vitae.

The department thanked those who attended the event, the six public safety agencies that competed with 13 different chili varieties, donors of cash and raffle prizes, bakers who provided items for the dessert table and event volunteers.

“We think all of the competitors and attendees had a great time,” the department said. “Everyone's taste buds certainly got a workout!”