Hanover Chili Cook-off

Chief Judge Jason Willis
Head Scorekeeper Amber Willis

Event Hours 11am – 5pm
Chili Tasting from 11am – 5pm

Join one of the biggest state qualifying cook-offs in the country and dive into a full throttle festival packed with flavor, music and non-stop action! Event is full of live bands, chili tasting, food vendors, ice cold drinks, a cornhole tournament, a mechanical bull riding competition, a comedian dunk tank and kid's zone! With over $7,000 in chili prizes to win and excitement around every corner, it's the perfect day to cook, compete, cheer, and celebrate!

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS EVENT IS A QUALIFIER FOR THE 2026 SEASON!

You must be an ICS Member to compete. Entry fees are separate per category (i.e. Red, Homestyle, Verde, etc.) and will be collected independently by the Cook-off Organizer. Please contact the organizer (info at top) for more information.

• 12x18 space provided in open field 
• Cooks must bring their own canopy/tent, table and chairs and supplies. Potable water available
• No electricity provided – generators not allowed
• Propane gas refill, canned goods and meat discounts for pre-entered cooks.
• Drive in to unload but vehicle must be off grounds by 9am
• Borough Fire Dept. will be checking stoves & fire extinguishers.
• Tasting cups, spoons and napkins, handwashing station provided - potable water upon request
• Beer tokens to cooks – no outside alcohol allowed

Please bring as much PC as you can - large crowd to feed

T-shirt & goodie bag to Cooks who pre-register. 

YOUTH COOKS
Email or call organizer to register a youth for this event. Youth must be 6 to 17 years of age.

1st  $250.00 and Trophy 

2nd  $100.00 and Trophy

3rd  $  50.00 and Trophy

Showmanship – For ALL Cooks / Chosen by Committee Members / MUST Pre-Enter at 8am Cook’s Meeting You will be judged on the following: Booth Set Up, Theme, Costume, Audience Appeal, and Litter control.   

$250.00 and Trophy 

Last Man Standing –  For ALL Cooks that bring enough chili to continuously serve up until 4pm $50.00 to each cook serving chili all day up to 4pm  

Additional $50.00 to drawing winner 

Hanover Exchange Club