On September 26, McKibbin Media Group's WKHM-FM (Jackson) held their 2026 K105.3 Fall Fest & Chili Classic.  The event was a tremendous success, bringing approximately 3,000 people to downtown Jackson for a full day of chili, live music, family activities, shopping and community fun.

The sixth annual event filled downtown Jackson with music, laughter and the unmistakable aroma of chili as attendees enjoyed beautiful fall weather, with temperatures reaching a comfortable 72 degrees and sunny skies throughout the day.

The Chili Classic featured 24 teams, serving more than 240 gallons of chili and 30 gallons of salsa. Twenty vendors also lined the festival grounds, offering everything from handmade crafts and cottage bakery items to beverages. In addition to the bragging rights and coveted Chili Classic honors, $1,400 in total cash prizes was awarded to the winning teams.

Music was a major part of the day's festivities, with performances on two stages throughout downtown. The Power Cow Stage at Bucky Harris Park featured local musician Cash O'Riley and country/rock artist Kevin Wolff, while the K105.3 Stage featured fan favorites Marcus & Tiffany, followed by Detroit's Electric Jukebox, who closed out the event. All concerts were free to attend.

Families also flocked to Kids Kingdom at Horace Blackman Park, where hundreds of children enjoyed free activities including a bounce house, pumpkin painting, pumpkin bowling, face painting, a petting zoo, pony rides, cider and donuts, and a foam party.

The festival also featured the colorful Mrs. Roper Romp parade, adding another dose of fun and personality to the celebration. The VIP Veranda, which offered lounge seating, refreshments, private restrooms and a prime location near the main stage, was presented by The Brokerage House Real Estate.

K105.3 and the McKibbin Media Group team extend a heartfelt thank-you to the event's sponsors, vendors, chili teams, entertainers, volunteers and everyone who came out to celebrate fall in downtown Jackson. "This event continues to be a wonderful reflection of what makes Jackson such a great community," said Ashley Worden, Promotions & Digital Director for McKibbin Media Group. "Seeing thousands of people come downtown, enjoy the food, music and activities, and spend the day together is exactly what Fall Fest is all about. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this year's event such a success."

The event's organizers also recognized the generous sponsors who helped make the free family activities and entertainment possible.

The station is already planning for another Fall Fest and Chili Classic, to be held September 25, 2027.