"When life gives you lemons, make lemonade... and then find someone whose life has given them vodka."

A beloved Jackson eatery, Doll N’ Burgers, is being forced to find a new home due to the extensive road construction on Cooper Street.

The restaurant’s team announced the difficult decision after a severe drop in business.

Sales have plummeted by more than 50% since the project began, creating an unsustainable situation.

On top of the financial losses, the business has endured construction-related utility disruptions, including broken water lines that forced temporary closures.

While the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) expects traffic to be passable by mid-November, the restaurant cannot wait any longer.

The move this fall to a new, higher-traffic location in Jackson is essential to keep staff employed and ensure the restaurant's survival.

They remain optimistic about serving their loyal customers from a new spot on the other side of town.

Paint & Sip: Sunflower Sunset

Thursday, Sept 11 from 5:30–8:00 PM
Grand River Brewery, 117 W Louis Glick Hwy

A guided painting session paired with drinks—perfect for a relaxing night out with friends or a creative date.

Paws in the Park – Dog Walk & Vendor Fair
Saturday, Sept 13 from 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Ella Sharp Park

A tail-wagging good time with pet vendors, rescue groups, and a community dog walk. Great for families and furry friends.

Live Music at Sandhill Crane Vineyards

Saturday, Sept 13 at 7:00 PM

4724 Walz Rd, Jackson

Celebrate the vineyard’s birthday with the Chris Canas Band, known for soulful blues and high-energy performances. Wine, food, and good vibes guaranteed.

Fall Harvest Festival-Ella Sharp Musuem

Saturday, Sept 27th at 11am

3225 4th St, Jackson, MI 49203

Take tours through our historic buildings: Ella’s Hillside Farmhouse, Dibble One-Room Schoolhouse, The Print Shop, Al’s Clock Shop, The General Store, and Stillson Loghouse. Featuring Popcorn Charlie, Apple Cider, and more!

The 5th Annual K105.3 Fall Fest & Chili Classic

Saturday, September 27, 2025

Noon until 7 p.m.

Downtown Jackson

Have a local event that you would like to share?  Contact us to get it listed for free.

Voted the Best Coney Island in Jackson &
Best Coney Dog in MI!

Stirring Up Victory: Last Year’s Chili Champion at Jackson’s Fall Fest

From Secret Spices to Local Glory—Inside the Winning Recipe That Lit Up Jackson’s Favorite Fall Tradition

Every fall, downtown Jackson transforms into a sizzling celebration of flavor, music, and community spirit — and at the heart of it all is the K105.3 Fall Fest & Chili Classic. Held on September 28, 2024, the event drew thousands to Michigan Avenue for a day of live entertainment, local vendors, and, of course, some serious chili competition.

And the Winner Was…

While the official winner’s name wasn’t publicly listed in recent coverage, the 2024 Chili Classic featured over 35 teams cooking 10 gallons of chili each, all from scratch and on-site. The competition was judged in two ways: a blind tasting panel and a People’s Choice vote, giving both culinary experts and hungry festival-goers a say in who took home the crown.

More Than Just Chili

The Fall Fest has grown far beyond its origins as a winter indoor cook-off. Since its outdoor relaunch in 2021, it’s become one of Jackson’s signature seasonal events. Highlights from last year included:
•     Live music on two stages
•     A bustling vendor market featuring local artisans and businesses
•     A Kids’ Kingdom with free activities hosted by Jackson First United Methodist Church
•     A salsa competition for those who like their heat with a twist

The first 35 chili teams even received a $100 gift card from Polly’s Country Market to help with ingredients — a nod to the event’s commitment to supporting local businesses and keeping the competition accessible.

Whether you came for the chili, the music, or the community vibes, the 2024 Fall Fest proved once again that Jackson knows how to bring the heat — and the heart.

Want to spotlight this year’s upcoming cook-off or profile one of the returning teams? I’d be happy to help you stir up a feature that’s equal parts flavorful and fun.

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