Boardwalk Chili Cook-Off
Saturday, October 24, 2026
Rain or Shine
Bring your appetite and join the fun as both professional and amateur chefs work their culinary magic and compete for the title of Best Chili!
Cook-Off Schedule
| 9am-10am | Chef's prep (no heat) |
| 10am-1pm | Chili cook time |
| 10am | Tasting Kits go on sale |
| 1pm | Public tasting begins |
| 4pm | Winners announced at the Colonnade Stage |
Try Some Chili!
Boardwalk admission is free! Just purchase a Tasting Kit to sample chili from dozens of competitors. Tasting Kits are $15 each and include eight (8) taste tickets, spoon, cup, and a People’s Choice ballot. Purchase your tasting kit(s) onsite at any ticket booth.
A portion of proceeds from each tasting kit sold will benefit the Youth Resource Bank of Santa Cruz County, an all-volunteer nonprofit that helps meet the needs of vulnerable children and youth. Since 1988, YRB has provided essentials such as backpacks, school supplies, clothing, and sports equipment through partnerships with local social workers, teachers, and public health professionals. More Info
Enter a Team!
The competition features four categories:
- Amateur Red
- Amateur Vegetarian Red
- Professional Red
- Professional Vegetarian Red
Awards are given for Best Chili in each category, plus People’s Choice, Most Tasted, and Best Theme.
Awards include plaques, cash prizes, and bragging rights!
Registration Deadline: October 12, 2026 OR until full