Bloomington, Indiana – Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard is turning up the heat this winter with its annual Chilly Cook-Off, a community-focused culinary event designed to bring people together while supporting a vital local food resource. The cook-off will kick off Freezefest on Friday, January 23, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Switchyard Pavilion, located at 1601 S. Rogers St., offering attendees a flavorful evening of chili tasting, friendly competition, and family-friendly fun.
Community members are encouraged to register their chili recipes and put their culinary skills to the test. Participants have the chance to win the coveted People’s Choice Award, impress a panel of judges, or take home prizes for Best Overall, Best Vegetarian, or Most Creative chili. Registration for chefs is free, but spots are limited to 25 competitors, and entries close Wednesday, January 7, or when all spots are filled.
“The Chilly Cook-Off is a fun way to bring our community together while supporting Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard,” said a spokesperson for the organization. “Every ticket sold helps us provide healthy food access and resources to local families, and the event is a celebration of creativity, flavor, and community spirit.”
Attendees will have the opportunity to taste a wide array of chili recipes, sampling the unique flavors each chef brings to the table. Guests can then cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award, giving the community a voice in determining the favorite chili of the evening. For those seeking a fiery challenge, six daring participants can take part in the Some Like It Hot contest, racing through an extra spicy chili for bragging rights and unforgettable heat-induced thrills.
Tickets for the Chilly Cook-Off are $25 for ages 11 and older, while children 10 and under enter for free. Ticket holders will enjoy unlimited chili samples, a chance to vote for the People’s Choice Award, and an opportunity to compete in the Some Like It Hot spicy chili-eating challenge. Sweet treats from Two Sticks and Chocolate Moose will also be available to cool the palate between bites of chili.
Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard is a community food resource center dedicated to increasing access to healthy food while fostering dignity, agency, and connection within the community. Events like the Chilly Cook-Off not only raise essential funds but also bring residents together to share in food, fun, and friendly competition. Each ticket purchased and each chef participating directly supports the organization’s mission to serve local families in need.
Community members who wish to participate as a chef or purchase tickets can do so online at mhcfoodpantry.org/chilly-cookoff, with additional tickets available at the door. For more information about the event, registration, or sponsorship opportunities, interested parties can contact Megan Betz at [email protected].
With its combination of culinary creativity, friendly rivalry, and community engagement, the Chilly Cook-Off promises to be a highlight of the winter season. Whether sampling inventive chili recipes, cheering on contestants in the spicy chili challenge, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, attendees can look forward to an evening of warmth, fun, and community spirit — all while supporting a worthy cause.
This annual event proves that even in the chilliest months, the community can come together to share food, laughter, and generosity, creating memories and making a meaningful impact for local families in need.
