KNOX — The 17th Annual Winterfest, sponsored by the Knox Youth Council, will be held this year on Saturday, Jan. 26, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Knox Town Park.

Those who plan to attend are encouraged to bring sleds and tubes for sledding, and snowshoes or cross-country skis to use the park’s trails. There will be a bonfire, and food and hot beverages distributed free of charge.

The youth council is honored to have, as this year’s chili contest judge, Brian Griffin, head chef of Mio Vino Wine Bar & Bistro. Located in the center of Altamont,

Mio Vino cooks all recipes from scratch, using local ingredients whenever possible. The chili judging will start at noon, with prizes for first, second, and third places. You must contact Jean Gagnon at 872-9670 to register.

Donations for the local food pantry will be collected at the festival. “One or two canned goods, especially in these trying times, would be truly appreciated,” the organizers said in a release.

Families are encouraged to attend together. Children in fifth grade and younger must be accompanied by an adult. The town park is located on Route 156 in the village, behind the firehouse and the town hall.

The “no-snow” alternate date is Saturday, Feb. 2. Listen to WGY 810 AM for any cancellation details.