Chili Cook-Off Overview

We're looking forward to running a lively, welcoming community event! Given the scale of the Chili Cook-Off, though, we need everyone to do their part in making sure the day goes smoothly. We ask that participants familiarize themselves with the competition schedule to ensure your team remains compliant with event safety protocol and competition rules throughout the day.  

• Teams may begin setting up their booth as early as 7:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 10, 2026.  
• Upon arrival, teams should check in at the Hospitality Tent to receive their booth number, location, and event packet.
• A cooking inspection will be conducted at 9:00 a.m. for all teams. If your team is set up and ready to begin cooking prior to 9:00 a.m., you may request a team inspection by reaching out directly to a Chili Committee member. You must have the inspection completed before you start cooking.
• Committee members will check in with the teams throughout the allotted cooking time.
• Team must bring their judging chili in a provided container to the WSC Marsh Room by 2:00 p.m. Chili entries will not be accepted after 2:15 p.m. Chili must be ready to serve at this time with a minimum temperature of 135°F.  
• Committee members will bring guest tasting bowls to each team around 1:30 p.m. to be used for serving the attendees.  
• The Chili Tasting grounds open to the public at 12:00 p.m.
• Those who consume beer and wine must obtain a wristband from the Hospitality Tent.
• Alcohol must be consumed within the specified event grounds.
• The winners will be announced at 5:00 p.m.  

 

Competition Schedule

7:00 AM	Gates Open / Team Load-In Begins  Chili Teams Start Cooking at 9am
10:30 AM	Parking Lot Closes to Vehicle Traffic
12:00 p.m.	Event Opens to Attendees
2:00 p.m.	Competition Chili Due to Judges  (Chili Judges convene 2:45-4pm)  Public Chili Tasting Opens
5:00 p.m.	Winners Announced
6:00 p.m.	Event Ends / Breakdown Begins