Compete for cash prizes, trophies and bragging rights, or just come to enjoy the fun and food.
The Rotary Club of Coral Gables is planning its second annual Chili Cook-Off, Chili Chillin’, on Sunday, Feb. 26, from 1 until 5 p.m., at Fred B. Hartnett Ponce Circle Park, 2810 Ponce de Leon Blvd., in downtown Coral Gables, south of Miracle Mile.
Contestants from local high schools, restaurants, and even fire departments from around South Florida with be participating.
In its first year the cook-off attracted an estimated 1,000 people and raised nearly $10,000 for the Rotary Club’s foundation, which provides approximately $35,000 annually in charitable giving, including $20,000 in scholarships to local high school students.
Some 30 teams from the South Florida community are expected compete to see who makes the best chili. Winning teams in various categories will receive cash prizes, and one trophy will be awarded to the best of each division to display for the entire year. Prizes also will be given for the Best Decorated Booth, as well as The People’s Choice Award where attendees weigh in on their favorites. Contestants will be judged by panel local leaders including Joe Fantigrassi, the BBQ/master smoker at Swine Restaurant.
The Chili Cook-Off is free to attend, and tickets will be available for purchase for those who want to taste the chili. There will be entertainment for the whole family with live music, bounce houses, and other kids activities. All are invited to come out and enjoy the fun and the food and support the local “chefs.” There also will be food and a variety of beverages for sale, including a beer garden sponsored by Concrete Beach Brewery.
Fred B. Harnett Ponce Circle Park is located at 2810 Ponce de Leon Blvd.
To compete in the chili contest visit: http://chilichillin.com/#rules. To become a sponsor visit http://chilichillin.com/#sponsors.
