Dan Gill's Bodacious Chili Cook-Off

Chili Cook-Off Rules, Guidelines and Schedule

Rules for all competitors

• Entries must be received by February 10, 2027
• Contest based on Homestyle Chili.
• Homestyle chili is any kind of meat, or combination of meats, and/or vegetables, cooked with beans, chili peppers, various spices, and other ingredients. Homestyle chili may be any color. Beans are required. No preference is given to cut, ground, shredded, or cubed meat. Seafood is allowed.
• Garnishes are not allowed. As a rule of thumb, if an ingredient appears only on the top layer of a sample cup and is not also mixed throughout the entire cup, it is a garnish and is not permitted.
• All participants are responsible for bringing their own tent, tables, cooking equipment, extension cords, etc.
• Propane burners are encouraged. Some electrical outlets will be available for crock-pots and must be reserved in advance.
• Chili may be prepared on-site or brought in.
  • We highly recommend preparing your chili on-site.
  • Please observe standard food safety guidelines: Chili prepared in advance must be chilled rapidly to 40°F or below and transported to the event either hot (140°F or above) or cold (40°F or below), then heated to serving temperature on-site.
• Five (5) gallons are recommended per contestant.
• If you make less than four gallons of chili and run out, you will miss important People's Choice votes.
• Winners will be chosen at 3:30pm by People’s Choice Ballots.
• Decorate your tent and table area to attract people to your chili! We will choose a winner!
• You must stay with your product at all times.
• Sample cups and spoons will be provided.

Schedule:

• Setup begins at: 8am
• Registration: 9am
• Gates Open: 12noon
• Winners Announced: 3pm