Back to All Events

Essex Chili Cook-Off | March 15, 2026

Sunday, March 15, 2026
1:00 PM 4:00 PM

Whallonsburg Grange Hall 1610 New York 22 Essex, NY, 12936 United States (map)

Google Calendar ICS

2026 Essex Chili Cook-Off Brings the Heat (and the Heart) to Whallonsburg

Bowls of homemade chili served at a Chili cook-off — Nothing goes better with a winter afternoon than a bowls of chili.

Late winter in the Adirondacks calls for comfort food, community spirit, and a good excuse to get out of the house.

The 2026 Essex Chili Cook-Off, happening on Sunday, March 15, 2026, delivers all three—served up hot, hearty, and completely free. Hosted by Essex Initiatives in collaboration with the Whallonsburg Grange Hall, this beloved annual event celebrates local farmers, food producers, and the simple joy of sharing a meal together.

If winter feels like it’s overstayed its welcome, this is the kind of gathering that makes March feel hopeful again. And if Mother Nature has other plans, mark the snow date now: Sunday, March 22, 2026.

A free chili dinner with local flavor.

Your free ticket includes a full chili dinner prepared by Essex Initiatives using locally sourced farm ingredients, along with cornbread, a cookie, and a non-alcoholic beverage. It’s a true farm-to-bowl experience—warming, filling, and rooted in the North Country’s agricultural community.

Competitors in the Essex Chili Cook-Off with their chili entry — Dan and Kimmy Rivera from Triple Green Jade Farm show off their chili skills.

In addition to the main meal, attendees can sample select entries in the Crowd Favorite Chili competition, where local cooks put their best recipes forward for bragging rights and community applause.

More than chili—this is a full-on community party.

The Essex Chili Cook-Off goes beyond the bowl. Live music by Too Tall String Band sets the tone with upbeat, rootsy sounds that pair perfectly with a winter afternoon. A 50/50 raffle raises funds for Essex Day entertainment, ensuring the fun continues well beyond March.

Refreshments will be available for purchase, including beer, hard cider, and non-alcoholic options, making this an easygoing, all-ages-friendly event.

Event details at a glance.

Date: Sunday, March 15, 2026
Snow date: Sunday, March 22, 2026
Time: 1pm to 4 pm
Location: Whallonsburg Grange Hall, 1610 NYS Route 22
Cost: FREE (beer and cider available for purchase)

Reserve your free ticket early.

A limited number of chili dinners will be prepared, so reserving a free ticket is strongly encouraged to ensure there’s enough food for everyone. Tickets will be held at the Grange on the day of the event, keeping things simple and stress-free.

Plan your visit and get updates.

For the most up-to-date details, ticket links, and weather-related updates, visit the Visit Essex website or follow Visit Essex on Facebook.
Want to enter the competition? Visit the website for all the details on how to enter.