Friends of Mitchell Logo

Chili Cook-Off

2nd Annual
FEB 1, 2026 | 12-3PM
📍 Dark Matter Warehouse
475 N. Campbell Ave.
Chicago, IL
🎨 Kids Activities Included! 🎨
Attendee Registration Contestant Registration

Admission

Kids Admission

$10

Adult Admission

$25

Adult Admission
w/Alcohol

$40

Competition Rules

  • Pre-registration is required for all contestants. We are limiting the competition to 25 participants—first come, first served!
  • No store-bought entries allowed—all chili must be made from scratch.
  • Contestants are required to give their chili a unique name that describes their dish. A catchy name can attract more tasters to try your chili!
  • Chili should be prepared before the event and brought in warm.
  • Contestants must bring their own heating plate or crockpot to keep their chili warm during the event. Open flames are not permitted.
  • We will provide ladles, tasting cups, and spoons for serving.
  • Feel free to bring your own special condiments or toppings to make your chili stand out—this could be the winning touch!
  • Contestants will be assigned a number stand with their entry number. There will be some common tables available for entries, but contestants may bring their own table and signage for their entry.
  • Please arrive at 11:30AM to setup your station and make sure you are registered in the system.
  • You may bring your own table, signage/displays and sides for your entry. All these little details may help you win.
  • We will try to have as many power cords and outlets available, but please feel free to bring your extension cords and power strips.

Ready to Join?

Register today! Limited spots available for competitors.

Contestant Registration Attendee Registration

🌶️ Chili Cook-Off FAQ 🌶️

What constitutes chili?

Defining chili can be tricky, but rest assured, the official judges and the community will know it when they taste it. If it walks like chili, smells like chili, and tastes like chili, you are probably on the right track.

What are the competition categories?

Chilis will be judged in the following categories:

  • Best Overall (1st Place and 2nd Place)
  • Best Veg
  • Most Original
  • Spiciest
  • Best Name

This year we even added the ability to vote for you two favorite chilis as Best Overall! Peoples choice 1st and 2nd place will be the chili with most "Best Overall" votes total.

Our official judges will decide on 1st 2nd and 3rd place winners.

How much chili should I make?

You do not want to run out and cut your votes short. A good rule of thumb is two to four pounds of protein per entry, adjusted as needed for vegetarian chilis. Plan generously so plenty of people can taste and vote.

Can I enter more than one chili?

Each contestant may enter one chili unless otherwise announced. This helps keep judging fair and tasting manageable.

Do I have to be a professional cook?

Absolutely not. This event is about fun, creativity, and community. Home cooks are encouraged and often win.

Is there a cost to enter as a contestant?

There is no cost to enter a chili, but all contestants must purchase an attendee ticket.

Who gets to vote?

All attendees get a vote in the People's Choice categories, while official judges will select winners in their designated categories.