One of the most popular events each spring is the Wilson Iron Chef Competition and Benefit Auction. Every March, food-lovers flock to Wilson High School for cooking competitions and tastings. 

It was announced that there will be no Wilson Iron Chef event in 2026. The event is scheduled to return in March 2027.

Iron Chef Competition

The highlight of the event each year is the Iron Chef cooking competition. Chefs from three local restaurants compete against each other in a timed cooking competition using secret ingredients to create their best dishes. 

In 2025, Chef Peter Etienne and Sous Chef Victoria Eustace from B2 Bistro + Bar in West Reading took home top honors with their risotto and chicken. 

People’s Choice Competition

In addition to the Iron Chef, more than 10 restaurants and eateries compete to take home the People’s Choice championship. People’s Choice competitors have to incorporate a specific ingredient into their entries, and everyone who attends the event gets to try all of the dishes and vote for their favorite. 

In 2025, the common ingredient was rice. Louie’s Kitchen & Bar earned People’s Choice honors with their Bulldog Cheesesteak, featuring a Liscio’s seeded roll, ribeye, mushroom rice creamy mayo, and cheese sauce. 

Vendor Row

Outside of the competition, vendor row brings local restaurants, businesses, and organizations and gives attendees a chance to sample their food and drink selections. More than 20 vendors participated in the event with samples that included pizza, meatballs, sandwiches, crumb cake, boba tea, pasta, and more. 

More Event Highlights

Throughout the event, attendees can enjoy live entertainment from the talented musicians of Wilson School District. In the lead-up to the Iron Chef competition, cooking demonstrations are featured on the main stage. There are also door prizes, raffles, and a silent auction with proceeds benefitting the Wilson Education Foundation.