2026 Chili Cook-Off Entry Form

The Eighth Annual Downtown Henderson Chili Cook Off is hosted by the Henderson Chamber of Commerce and its Downtown Henderson Partnership Committee, in conjunction with the Fall Market on Main. Each team selects a non-profit to benefit from their raised funds. Two winners will be selected - a People's Choice winner who raises the most money, and a 1st Place winner of the blind, juried competition. PLEASE NOTE: All teams must make 12 gallons of chili to serve. Competition rules and additional details below!

Chili Cook-Off Rules

The following rules are to be adhered to by all cook-off cooks and organizations:

1.  True chili is defined as any kind of meat or combination of meats cooked with chili peppers, various other spices and other ingredients including items such as beans or pasta. Green or white chili will not be accepted – only red chili recipes. 

2.  There is no entry fee for non-profits; other businesses and individuals wishing to enter will pay $35 per chili entered. All money raised for businesses and individuals must be allocated to the non-profit of their choice. Contestants may enter more than 1 batch of chili.

3.  The Chamber will sell chili mugs, which will serve as the ticket into the cook-off. The Chamber will also provide spoons for the event. Condiments such as hot sauce or crackers will not be provided. 

4.  Contestants are responsible for supplying all their own products related to their chili submission and maintenance of its proper temperature for serving. An electrical outlet will be available for each team. Please bring extra-long extension chords to connect. All ingredients must be pre-cooked prior to the event – chili is to be brought ready to eat.

5.  Each team must cook at least 12 gallons of chili for consumption. 

6.  Each organization is responsible for cleaning up their area at the end of the event and removing all items from their area. There will not be an area for the cleaning of dishes. No items shall be allowed to remain after the close of the cook-off.

7.  Because of food allergies and sensitivities, please be able to provide an ingredient list at the event. If chili is spicy please let that be known. 

8.  Organizations may also sell baked goods as long as an ingredient list is available.

 

Peoples Choice Judging Format

1.  Every chili team will receive a ballot box. Upon entry attendees will receive a ticket that is worth $1. Tickets and/or cash will be used to vote on their favorite chili. (1 ticket = $1)

2.  All dollars raised (including tickets) will go to the contestant’s organization or non-profit of choice. The Chamber will collect and count all boxes and mail checks to the organizations following the event.      

By clicking "SUBMIT" I am certifying that I have read and understood the cook-off rules. I agree that our team will be responsible for its set up and clean up of assigned area.