Downtown Kalamazoo's Annual Chili Cook-Off is a free, community event from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 27th!  It's how we've stayed warm on a cold Saturday in January for the past 13 years! It’s our tradition to explore downtown, sampling chili recipes, and visiting new and familiar stores and restaurants. And, don't miss The Holly Jolly Chili Trolley, transporting chili tasters all over downtown so you don't miss a single one!

Also, back by popular demand, commemorative tasting spoons! Pick yours up for only $5 at Cook-Off Headquarters, Consumers Credit Union on the Mall.  Here is where you'll start your quest to find the best chili of the year.  You can also get a map/passport that will guide you through the many chili stops, a Chili Bingo card with a chance to win fantastic prizes and voting instructions!

Kalamazoo Chili Cook-Off is a Downtown Kalamazoo Retail and Restaurant Association (DKRRA) event that is put on by a volunteer committee, dedicated to the growth and success of our downtown community. Along with a growing list of amazing sponsors, the DKRRA works to continually grow and improve this event each year.

2018 chili sampling is available at each of the locations listed below, while the chili lasts. Stop at any one of these businesses and enjoy a sampling of some of the best and most unique chili around. Some sites will even offer vegan and vegetarian options! Then, vote for your favorite, and check out our Facebook feed to see who wins. See you there!

2018 Participants:

V= Vegan; GF = Gluten Free

Down Dog Yoga Center with Organic Gypsy (V)

Mangia Mangia (GF)

Nature Connection (V, GF)

Zazios

Old Dog Tavern

Water Street Coffee Joint

Cherri's Chocol'art

Spirit of Kalamazoo with Ol' Moose BBQ (V)

Fuze Kitchen & Bar (GF)

Artisan Sandwich Co. with New Craft Cabinetry

HopCat - Kalamazoo (GF)

Aardema Wood Floors

Kalamazoo Valley Museum (V)

The Heritage Co.

​Food Dance Cafe (V)

Bell's Eccentric Cafe

Olde Peninsula

Harvey's on the Mall

Irving's Market & Deli (GF)

Pop City Popcorn with Wedos Tacos

Tempo Vino Winery

Tudor House Tea & Spice with Bomba's BBQ

Kelvin & Co. BBQ (GF)

MRC artWorks

Old Burdick's Bar & Grill

Rugger's Up & Under

MLive with Weller BBQ

The Station

Taco Bob's

Morrison Jewelers w/ Kalamazoo Pit Posse

The Union Cabaret & Grille

Wine Loft

Central City Tap House