The following is a republished press release from the Cortland Downtown Partnership and not an article written by The Cortland Voice … to submit a community announcement, email Peter Blanchard at [email protected].

CORTLAND, N.Y. - Cortland’s Chill-A-Bration marks its ninth year and has become an anticipated mid-winter attraction downtown. It brings in hundreds of people to the Main Street area from all over New York and as far away as 200 miles away as a fun day trip and activity. The event gives Cortland and opportunity a chance to showcase retailers and collections of over 30 downtown restaurants.

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Running noon to 4:00pm on Saturday, February 27, event goers purchase tickets to sample the winter fare and chili pepper inspired recipes to compete for the title of “Cortland Area’s Best Chili” and “Favorite Winter Flavor” as voted by the public. This year, there are 24 stops on the Chill-A-Bration winter tasting trail.

But why “Chill-A-Brate”? Chillabration is the act of “chilling” or relaxing but in an exciting and social setting or manner. That’s exactly what this event is – an opportunity to catch up with friends, sample yummy food and discover new hangouts, new foods, and new shops in Historic Downtown Cortland.

Re-discover favorite establishments to see what’s new.

How does one Chill-A-Brate? It’s easy.

Step 1: Dress warm & bring friends! This is a walking tasting-tour of Historic Downtown Cortland.

Step 2: Buy your Chill-A-Bration mug and tasting tickets at Cortland Beer Co. (16 Court St.,

Step 3: Taste! Exchange 1 ticket for 1 sample at each participating location on the map. DRINK tickets are for adult beverage sampling. Show your mug! Look out for special deals exclusive to mug holders.

Step 4: Have fun!

Step 5: Vote! Vote for “Cortland Area’s Favorite Chili” and “Favorite Winter Flavor” at any one of 3 locations by 4:00pm: The Local Food Market at 37 N. Main, Cortland Beer Co. at 16 Court St., or Frosted at 133 Main St.. Two ballots will be drawn to give away a $50 Cortland Downtown Gift Certificate.

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