Event Registration - Benton / West City Area Chamber of Commerce.
2026 Rend Lake Water Festival Chili Cook Off
5/1/2026
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM CST

View Current Attendees

Location: Franklin County Ford Garage Museum, 211 N. Main, Benton, IL 62812


Registration ends on 4/27/2026
There are currently 15 spots remaining out of 15




Event Description

OUT DOOR EVENT

Join us on Friday, May 1st, 2026, in the parking lot of the Franklin County Ford Garage Museum (211 N. Main Street) for a fun-filled evening of great food, friendly competition, and community spirit.

We are now accepting 15 teams to compete for the title of Chili Cook-Off Champion! Whether you're a seasoned chili master or just love to cook, this is your chance to show off your best recipe.

🔥 Contestant Details:

  • Entry Fee: $25 per team
  • Limited to 15 teams (first come, first served)
  • Teams must provide their own tables, tents, and crockpots
  • Each team must prepare their own chili (minimum of 2 gallons)
  • No store-bought chili allowed
  • All teams must follow proper food safety guidelines
  •  Public Judging & Voting:

Attendees will have the opportunity to sample a variety of delicious chili recipes and vote for their favorite.

🏆 Prizes:

  • 1st Place: $100, medal & bragging rights
  • 2nd Place: $50, medal & bragging rights
  • 3rd Place: $25, medal & bragging rights

Overall Crowd Favorite will be crowned based on public Judging.