OGDENSBURG — Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2936 will heat things up this winter with a Chili Cook-Off scheduled Saturday, Feb. 7, at 1112 Champlain St.
Doors open at 8 a.m., with judging set for 5 p.m. The event is open to both competitors and the public.
Teams interested in competing must register by Jan. 31, 2026. The entry fee is $25 per chili team. All chili must be cooked on site—no pre-made, canned, or boxed chili is allowed. Ingredients must be brought in raw, although vegetables may be chopped ahead of time. Teams must supply their own cooking equipment, such as slow cookers or burners, along with extension cords if needed. Food-grade disposable gloves are required while preparing and serving chili.
Team setup begins at 8 a.m., and cooking must be completed by 4 p.m. Judging will begin promptly at 5 p.m. and will be conducted blind, with entries evaluated on taste, texture, aroma, and overall appeal.
Awards will be presented for first, second, and third place, along with a People’s Choice Award. Members of the public are invited to sample all chilies and vote for their favorite beginning at 5 p.m. The cost for public tasting is $10 per person, which includes one ballot.
Organizers remind participants to follow all food-handling and cleanliness rules and note that sharing samples outside of official tasting is not permitted.
For more information, official rules, or to enter a team, contact Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2936 at 315-713-4477 or 315-528-7074, or email vfwpost2936@gmail.com
Dining and Cooking