Get your spoons ready! The 27th Annual Downtown Ithaca Chili Cook-Off is set to ignite the Ithaca Commons on Saturday, March 1st, from noon to 4 p.m. This highly anticipated event promises a fiery afternoon of culinary competition, live entertainment, and community spirit.
Local chefs and restaurants will showcase their best chili creations, vying for top honors in three categories: Best Meat Chili, Best Vegetarian/Vegan Chili, and Best Chili-Inspired Dish. A panel of judges will have the difficult task of selecting the winners, while attendees will have their own chance to weigh in. QR codes will be available at the event, allowing attendees to easily register and cast their votes for the coveted People’s Choice Award.
Beyond the chili tasting, the event offers an interactive experience for gamers. The popular Space Chili Challenge video game returns for its third year, giving players a chance to compete for Chili Cook-Off prizes. The competition runs until February 28th, with the top three scorers taking home the prizes.
Foodies looking to sample the diverse chili offerings can purchase tickets in multiples of 10, with ten sample tickets starting at $15. Each ticket grants access to a 2-3 ounce sample of chili, a chili-inspired dish, or a craft beverage sample from participating vendors. The Chili Cook-Off promises a flavorful experience for all, so mark your calendars for a taste of Ithaca’s best.
