Chili Cook-Off + Salsa Showdown

How It Works

Chili and salsa are judged separately, but both competitions share the same ground rules. Entry is free for both this year. Entries are dropped off at 3:00 PM on event day.

• On the day of the event, entries must be delivered to Sunset Park by 3:00 PM.
• No entry fee — chili and salsa are both free to enter for Fall Fest 2026.
• Once your entry is submitted, you won't have access to it again until judging is complete.
• Feel free to label your entry with special ingredients or spice notes.
• This is a blind tasting competition with no identification of the cook. Entrants are assigned numbers at random — if you know your number, please don't share it or otherwise try to identify your entry to others.
• Judging is by people's choice — guests vote from their phones using their QR-code ticket. Votes are tallied and winners announced after voting closes.

Chili Rules

• Chili must be pre-cooked and ready to serve — no store-bought chili allowed.
• Entries are placed in half sheet pans (approx. 9"×13"×2.5"), provided by the HOA, and kept warm by non-electric means.
• Separate toppings may not be offered at the tasting table. Garnishes (onions, cheese, sour cream, etc.) must be incorporated into the chili before submission.
• Chili can be red, green, meat-only, with beans, or without beans — your call.

Salsa Rules

• Bring your best salsa — homemade only, no store-bought entries.
• Entries are placed in provided serving containers and kept chilled by non-electric means (ice, etc.) as needed.
• Separate mix-ins may not be offered at the tasting table. All ingredients must be incorporated into the salsa before submission.
• Red or verde, mild or hot, chunky or smooth — your call.