Cook-Off Overview
Contact Us
Chili Cook-Off Committee
uhdchili@uhd.edu
We're looking forward to running a lively, welcoming community event! Given the scale of the Chili Cook-Off, though, we need everyone to do their part in making sure the day goes smoothly. We ask that participants familiarize themselves with the competition schedule to ensure your team remains compliant with event safety protocol and competition rules throughout the day.
- Teams may begin setting up their booth as early as 8:00 a.m. on Friday, April 10, 2026.
- Upon arrival, teams should check in at the Hospitality Tent to receive their booth number, location, and event packet.
- A cooking inspection will be conducted at 10:00 a.m. for all teams. If your team is set up and ready to begin cooking prior to 10:00 a.m., you may request a team inspection by reaching out directly to a Chili Committee member. You must have the inspection completed before you start cooking.
- Committee members will check in with the teams throughout the allotted cooking time.
- Team must bring their judging chili in a provided container to the Hospitality Tent by 3:00 p.m. Chili entries will not be accepted after 3:15 p.m. Chili must be ready to serve at this time with a minimum temperature of 135°F.
- Committee members will bring guest tasting bowls to each team around 3:30 p.m. to be used for serving the attendees.
- The grounds open to the public at 4:00 p.m.
- Employees who choose to drink beer or wine and have not taken leave for the event
may start drinking at 5:00 p.m.
- Those who consume beer and wine must obtain a wristband from the Hospitality Tent.
- Alcohol must be consumed within the specified event grounds.
- The winners will be announced at 7:00 p.m.
Competition Schedule