Chili Cook Off - The South Sound Showdown
About this Event
SOUTH SOUND SHOWDOWN A Tacoma Rising Event
Join us for the South Sound Showdown, a community chili cook-off featuring 16 local restaurants competing for 3 different chili titles and 10 local businesses going head-to-head for best cornbread.
This event is the culmination of an eight-week hands-on learning experience built alongside local high school and college students. The event also serves as a fundraiser supporting future scholarships, mentorship opportunities, and small business programming through Tacoma Rising.
What to Expect
- Chili & Cornbread Tastings: Sample chili from 16 local restaurants paired with fresh cornbread from 10 local businesses
- Cast Your Votes: You decide who takes home the People’s Choice Awards for the Best Chili
- Student Showcase: Meet the high school and college student cohort who built and managed this event from the ground up
- Community & Entertainment: Enjoy a live DJ, a silent auction, a beer garden and networking with local restaurant and business leaders
How to Get Involved
Whether you're coming to eat or looking to make a bigger impact, there are plenty of ways to participate:
- Get Your Tickets
- Participate in or Donate to the Silent Auction
- Sponsor or Volunteer
Learn more about what we do at https://therisingcities.com/events/2026
Reach out to us directly by emailing [email protected]
Photo & Video Release
By purchasing tickets and attending this event, you acknowledge and agree that Tacoma Rising LLC and UrbanWork LLC may take photographs and videos during the event. These images and recordings may be used for marketing materials, websites, social media, and other business-related purposes at their discretion. By purchasing a ticket, you grant permission to be photographed and filmed during the event and release any rights to the photos and videos taken.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 31.51 to USD 90.48



















