Join in State Championship Chili Cook-Off July 26

The Batavia Riverwalk will heat up at noon Saturday, July 26, as the Batavia Park District and the Batavia Chamber of Commerce team up to host the 22nd annual State Championship Chili Cook-Off.

This year, three divisions are available for competitors.

If you think you make the best chili on your block, enter the "Homestyle" division for $25. If you own a local business, you can enter the "Restaurant" division for $50. And for the serious competitors looking to take it to the next level, you can enter the Chili Appreciation Society International division for $25. Homestyle and CASI competitors will be required to cook on site. Restaurant competitors can prepare their entry in a certified kitchen and deliver to the competition. Current restaurants include Daddio's Diner, The Range Grill & Tap, Enticing Cuisine and Heritage Woods.

A "People's Choice Award" will be given in both the Homestyle and Restaurant divisions. CASI competitors will be scored by a panel of judges and will receive separate prizes.

If you don't want to compete, just come to eat! Tasting cups will be available for $5. Concessions, including Ream's hot dogs, chips and soda, will also be available for purchase.

A portion of the proceeds benefits the Batavia Teen Center.

To cleanse your palette, O' Sole Mio will be on site selling gelato.

For information about the Chili Cook-Off, visit www.bataviaparks.org or www.bataviachamber.org.