26th annual State Championship Chili Cook-Off set to heat up Batavia

Batavia's 26th annual State Championship Chili Cook-Off will fire up crowds from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 28, at the Batavia Riverwalk.

The Batavia Park District and Batavia Chamber of Commerce will host the hottest event of the summer for individuals to bring their apron and homemade chili recipe to compete or just to come eat delicious chili.

Participants across the state will compete in the Chili Appreciation Society International Championship Cook-Off in the hopes of qualifying for the international championship this November in Terlingua, Texas.

Cooks can also participate in Batavia's traditional chili division for awards such as People's Choice, Showmanship and more. Only CASI contestants will be eligible for the state title.

A full list of CASI rules are available via the Batavia Park District website. There is a $25 fee to enter either category, and all chili must be made on-site.

Chili tasting spoons will be available for a $5 suggested donation. There will be more chili than ever this year as local community organizations such as the Batavia Chamber of Commerce, Batavia MainStreet, Batavia Unit District 101, Batavia Park District, City of Batavia, and more will compete to win the title of People's Choice within their category.

The Chili Cook-Off will also feature new chili "cool-off" activities this year including a Hot Sauce Tasting Competition sponsored by Gindo's Hot Sauce, a Watermelon Eating Contest, and the Fire Hose Challenge. Concessions will be available courtesy of Bernie's Bully Dogs.

For more information about the Chili Cook-Off, or to register, call (630) 879-5235 or visit www.bataviaparks.org.