Looking for a fun way to spend a February afternoon with the family while supporting a great cause? The 5th Annual Central Florida Chili Cookoff is heating up Winter Garden on Saturday, February 7, 2026, and it’s serving up much more than just great chili.
Hosted by Legacy Events for Education, this beloved community event takes place from 12:00–4:00 PM at Hamlin Green Space and brings together food, fun, and philanthropy in one family-friendly afternoon.
🌶️ Chili, Competition, and Community
Guests can sample chili from more than 30 local restaurants and chefs, with competitors traveling from Pensacola to Miami. This year’s lineup includes five Florida State Chili Championship winners from the Chili Appreciation Society International, so expect some serious flavor!
Chili will be judged across multiple categories, including:
- CASI (traditional chili, meat and sauce only)
- Open (creative chili styles)
- Restaurant
- Showmanship
- People’s Choice
🎶 More Than Just Chili
Beyond the tasting, families can enjoy:
- Food trucks and dessert vendors
- Live entertainment
- A Kids Zone play area, perfect for younger attendees
This event is designed to be welcoming for all ages, making it an easy “yes” for families looking to get out and enjoy the community together.
❤️ Supporting Local Teens
While the chili is the star of the show, the heart of the event is its mission. Proceeds from the Chili Cookoff help fund scholarships for Orange County teens who are making a difference through community involvement. Over the past four years, the event has raised $32,000, contributing to more than $120,000 in scholarships and grants awarded since 2019.
This year’s event will fund eight $1,000 scholarships for local students as they head into their next chapter after high school.
🎟️ Ticket Details
- Early bird adult tickets: $10 through February 6
- Day-of adult tickets: $15
- Kids 12 and under: $5 (includes Kids Zone access)
Chili tasting and the Kids Zone close at 3:30 PM, followed by the awards ceremony.
👉 Tickets and full event details are available through the Central Florida Chili Cookoff event page.
