Yucatan Living

Merida English Library Chili Cook-off

The Merida English Library was established many years ago (honestly, we're not sure how long ago... but it was an institution when we arrived in 2002) to provide English language material in all formats to meet the informational, educational and recreational needs of the residents of Merida. In practice, the library is used not just by native English speakers, but also by many Spanish-speaking residents looking to improve their English skills. It's a great place to meet people and enjoy the convergence of cultures that makes living in Mexico such an interesting learning experience.

Two of the library's most important events have been combined this year into one big day. This year, the Seventh Annual Chili Cookoff will be held on the same day as the annual Garage Sale.

For starters, instead of having the Chili Cookoff at an empty school, as in years past, this year the coordinators have met with the Mayor and talked with the Police Department of Merida and they are going to block off the entire street in front of the library and have a block party. Calle 53, between Calle 66 and Calle 68 will be blocked to traffic all day on Sunday, March 18 for the local gringos. What fun!

There are other changes in store as well. Instead of having the Garage Sale in the library garden, tables and booths will be set up in the street. The library has invited 7 or 8 local antique dealers to sell their goods at the event as well. We all know how much extranjeros love antiques, so this is bound to be a big draw and a good opportunity for all newcomers to get to know the local antique vendors. There will also be Guatemalan artisans selling their crafts, including yardage of handwoven cloth. And of course, there will be booths of local residents selling used items as well.

Booths are still available for a $300 peso donation if you would like to sell your household items. Donations are also being accepted for the library's own booth. The proceeds of any items you donate (household items but no clothes or shoes) will go to the library. If you would like to donate items or rent your own booth, please call Paul Ziegler at 925-0425. Let him know what you have to donate and he will arrange to have the goods picked up.

The Chili Cookoff will begin at approximately 1 pm and will feature 10-12 different chilis. In the past, we have tasted everything from New York Chili to Vegetarian Chili. Some are spicy, some are sweet. They are all delicious and the best ones disappear quickly, so don't be late! A $100 peso ticket will let you taste all the chili you can eat ($50 pesos if you are a kid). Tasters vote on the best chili and the winner is announced at the end of the event. Tickets can be bought early at the library or the day of the event. If you want to enter your chili in the Cookoff, call Sandy Sweet at 924-3722. She and Paul are also looking for volunteers to help on the day of the event.

The event begins at 10 am and ends by 4 pm. We think the idea of a block party is a great one... there is something so deliciously fun about playing in the street! This promises to be the best Merida English Library event ever, so don't miss it!

Date: March 18, 2007

Time: 10 AM to 4 PM

Location: Calle 53 between Calle 66 and 68, Centro

Info on Chili Cookoff: Sandy Sweet at 924-3722

Info on Garage Sale/Bazaar: Paul Ziegler at 925-0425

• Yucatan Living article about last year's chili cook-off
• Merida English Library website