Chilipalooza 2025

There will be two categories: traditional and plant-based. A judges panel of three local restaurateurs will select one winner in each category. Additionally, a People’s Choice winner will be chosen in both categories. Winners will receive a prize and a place in history.  

Voting closes at 3:30, and winners will be announced at 4 pm!

1. (1) 6 foot Table and tasting cups will be provided to each chef.  
2. Chef/Contestants will need to cook a minimum of 4 gallons of chili and (if desired) toppings. Electricity is available at the tables.
3. Booth locations are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis
4. Chef/Contestant may bring their own tents and are encouraged to decorate!
5. Chef/Contestant must create and provide any and all signage at the booth.  Chilipalooza will only number the booths for the judges to identify each booth.
6. Each Chef/Contestant has up to a 10x10 foot space for their pop up tent, decorations, embellishments.  Pick a theme and make your table/tent entertaining.  Have some fun with this.
7. Recipe can cover any form of chili – beef, pork, turkey, vegetarian, etc.  No specific categories for the overall judging – just best chili wins!
8. Chili must be home made and not purchased or bought from a store or restaurant. 
9. Chefs/contestants must bring all the serving utensils, storage elements, paper towels, etc. for operation of the booth.  Tasting cups and spoons will be provided.
10. Chef/representatives must be on-site from 11:30 AM to 5:00 PM and ensure their booth is staffed at all times. We encourage chili chefs to bring an extra hand or two so they can also enjoy the tastings.
11. The Panel of Judges may not do the tastings at the same time, so judging may happen throughout the afternoon.

Sign up today to compete to be El Segundo's Chili Champ!

Time: 1-4 pm (check-in at 12:30 pm). 

The tournament will be a four-game round-robin and a single elimination bracket with two divisions: social and competitive. Entry fee is $20 per team. Half of the fee will go to El Segundo Kiwanis to help support our local youth. The other half will go towards cash prizes for 1st and 2nd place in each division.  3rd place will receive 2 free beer tickets.

Sign Up for the Cornhole tournament