2022 West Chester Chili Cook-Off

On the 2nd Sunday in October, the streets of Downtown West Chester come alive for a day of food, fun and philanthropy. More than 50 chili teams, comprised of restaurants, businesses, hometown cooks and non-profit organizations, set up shop right on the street and cook chili, all vying for the coveted People’s Choice Award. As the streets fill with the aroma of perfectly seasoned meat and beans, thousands of hungry chili fans arrive to shop the amazing array of artisan vendors, visit the kid zone with their families, stop in to the local bars for a brew and most importantly sample all the chili they can eat and cast their vote for the winning recipe. As the day draws to a close and the votes are counted one lucky team is crowned the winner and in addition to bragging rights, receives a cash prize of $1,000.

This event—that brings families and folks from all over the greater Philadelphia region—does so much more than provide a festive way to fill a Sunday afternoon. All the proceeds from that day benefit the good works of the Rotary Club of West Chester whose motto is, “Service Above Self.” Since the first Chili Cook-Off in 2002, the Rotary Club of West Chester has raised almost half a million dollars. They have provided thousands of dollars in grants to local non-profits, purchased over 2,000 winter coats for local kids in need, supported our troops with care packages, and provided opportunities for physically disabled children to have life altering medical procedures. It’s amazing how one street festival can change the world for the better.

Host or Publisher West Chester Rotary Chili Cook-off