2026 Jr Iron Chef VT Competition
Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026 - 8:00am
Jr Iron Chef VT is a career exploration program and competition that empowers Vermont youth to create locally sourced meals that promote Vermont’s Farm to School efforts. Since 2008, more than 5,000 Vermont middle and high school students on 1,000+ teams have participated in this groundbreaking program. Along the way, they’ve learned how to create and prepare recipes from scratch, built self-confidence, developed teamwork, leadership, and communication skills, learned about local agriculture and nutrition, and established relationships with peers, chefs, mentors, and local farmers. The program culminates one day every March when youth from across the state are brought together to stand side-by-side in an orchestrated frenzy—dicing, grating, and sautéing their way to culinary fame!
Important dates:
- 10/24/25: Early bird registration opens
- 12/17/25: Regular registration opens
- 2/6/26: Registration deadline
Learn more about the 2025 registration process and competition.
Questions? Please reach out to program coordinator Kerrie Mathes at [email protected].
In 2021, Vermont Afterschool took on overall management and hosting of the competition. The organization’s deep connections to schools and commitment to youth engagement will help Jr Iron Chef VT to grow and reach even more students. Although we no longer manage the program, Vermont FEED supports the great tradition of Jr. Iron Chef VT and the meaning it brings to so many. Read more about the program.