Chili cook-off and axe throwing thrill crowds at Sparta Fall Fest

The Brief

• The Sparta Area Chamber of Commerce Fall Fest features local vendors, food trucks, and a chili cook-off

• The event welcomes visitors from outside Sparta to experience the community’s hospitality

• Fall-themed activities include a pie eating contest, tractor pull, and axe throwing

SPARTA, Wis. (WKBT) — The Sparta Area Chamber of Commerce Fall Fest brought autumn festivities to the community today, offering residents and visitors a chance to experience local culture and seasonal activities.

The annual event showcased local vendors selling homemade crafts and goods, a food truck alley, and a chili cook-off. Organizers designed the festival to welcome visitors from surrounding areas to experience Sparta’s community character.

“So this is our opportunity to show people really who Sparta is,” said Lance Hauser, 2024 Sparta Fall Fest Chili Cook-Off winner. “We open our doors, we open our community to all of our visitors and you get to see our friendly faces and big smiles welcoming you to our town.”

The Fall Fest featured numerous autumn-themed activities for all ages. A pie eating contest challenged competitors’ appetites and speed, while a tractor pull demonstrated agricultural heritage. Axe throwing provided a unique recreational activity, combining skill and entertainment.

The festival capitalized on cooler fall temperatures, creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities. Local vendors used the event to display handcrafted items and locally produced goods, supporting the area’s small business economy.

The food truck alley expanded dining options beyond traditional festival fare, while the chili cook-off added competitive flavor to the culinary offerings. Such contests often become community traditions, with participants returning annually.

The Chamber of Commerce’s organization of the event demonstrated local business community investment in promoting Sparta as a destination. The emphasis on community hospitality highlighted Sparta’s identity as a welcoming place for visitors.