URGENT UPDATE: The highly anticipated annual Chili Cook-Off at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is set to ignite taste buds on Saturday, October 25, 2025. This year’s event will feature a record-breaking 55 teams competing for cash prizes, plaques, and the coveted title of chili champion.
Chili enthusiasts will have the chance to sample a variety of meaty and vegetarian chili dishes while supporting a worthy cause. A portion of every $15 tasting kit, which includes eight sample cups, will benefit Haven of Hope, a nonprofit dedicated to providing essential support services to current and former foster youth since 1998.
Details are as follows: Tasting kits will go on sale at 10 a.m., with public tasting beginning at 1 p.m.. Attendees will have the opportunity to cast their votes for the People’s Choice award, with winners announced at 4 p.m. on the Pirate Ship Stage.
Defending champions will include Ric’s Righteous from San Jose, who triumphed in both the Professional Vegetarian and Professional Meat categories, as well as the Smokin Hot Chili team from Campbell, the winners of the Amateur Meat category, and the Veggin’ Out team from Sunnyvale, who claimed victory in the Amateur Vegetarian category.
This thrilling culinary showdown promises to be an engaging community event, with awards given for Best Amateur Red, Best Amateur Vegetarian Red, Best Professional Red, Best Professional Vegetarian Red, along with additional categories including People’s Choice, Most Tasted, and Best Booth Theme.
With free admission to the Boardwalk at 400 Beach St., Santa Cruz, and the excitement of competing teams, this year’s Chili Cook-Off offers a perfect blend of flavor, fun, and philanthropy. Don’t miss out on the chance to participate in this delicious community tradition!
Visit the official event page for more details: https://beachboardwalk.com/.
Share this news now and get ready for a spicy showdown!
