By Peighton Yoakam OMAHA, Neb. — Midtown Crossing turned up the heat last Saturday during its annual Chili Crawl, where residents sampled local recipes, met new people, and celebrated community spirit on a perfect fall afternoon.
For Maggie Thomas, general manager of Bloc Fitness, the event was more than a chance to enjoy chili — it was a way to build connections.
“As a new gym looking to connect with the community, we thought it was a great opportunity to get our name out there, meet people, and learn about Midtown Crossing and downtown,” Thomas said.
Bloc Fitness has sponsored several of Midtown Crossing’s popular events, including the Mac & Cheese Bash, Pickle Party, and Pumpkin Prowl. Thomas said each event boosts local businesses and keeps Omaha’s community spirit thriving.
Building Community Through Connection
Thomas said fitness and wellness are more than exercise; they’re about finding joy and balance.
“People want to connect. It’s good, clean, and fun,” she said. “These events build connections, bring people together, and give them a reason to meet and try something new.”
She added that health can look different for everyone, and that enjoying a bowl of chili can still fit within a balanced lifestyle.
“It’s okay to say wellness can sometimes mean having a big bowl of chili with cheese on top,” Thomas said. “It’s about being real and making fitness something you enjoy.”
A Warm Welcome to Omaha
For Josh Gibson, a new Omaha resident, the Chili Crawl offered both a taste of local flavors and a sense of belonging.
“The best part has been visiting with my friends,” Gibson said. “The weather’s perfect, and the atmosphere is really chill.”
He said the event highlights what makes Omaha special.
“Everyone’s been passing up and down the sidewalks. It’s really about people coming together,” Gibson said.
More Than Chili
As Midtown Crossing continues to host community events throughout the year, from cocktail crawls to pet festivals — the Chili Crawl remains a fan favorite.
For Thomas and her team, these gatherings represent something larger than chili recipes and restaurant samples.
“If we can meet someone here who takes the first step toward improving their health, that’s the biggest win,” she said.
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