Grand Rapids’ most popular Chili CookOff is back in season.
Saturday, September 26.
At Garage Bar / Chicago Beef Joint (the ballpark is under construction).
Benefitting Fans of Valley Field. (all proceeds go toward the activation and renovation of the ballpark)
Gate opens at 11am. (see “Schedule” for all activities)
Savor adult beverages while you stalk the food and listen to live music.
See map with team locations in the Ground Rules section of this website.
NO outside alcohol or food allowed. Beer, Seltzer, Bloody Marys (until they run out) & Mixed Drinks will be available for purchase, as well as soft drinks and water. Also, enjoy our other tasty food options at Chicago Beef Joint and the Grage Bar while you wait for the chili tasting time.
We are a 100% volunteer-run organization. All entry ticket funds go directly to ballpark activation and renovation!
It all began with an idea.
Maybe we can take this chili cook-off out of retirement? However, what if we have it at a ballpark? We presented the idea to Lisa & Dan Verhil, former Cottage Bar owners and the extremely popular Cottage Bar Chili Cook-Off.
They loved the idea and now call it Chili Cook-Off at the Ballpark. This fun, festive, tasty event is held at Sullivan Field, on Grand Rapids’ WestSide. (Since ballpark is under construction, it’s on Ottawa Ave. this year.)
Proceeds from this delectable event will benefit Fans of Valley Field.
The Winners - 2026
2026 Chili CookOff at the Ballpark Winners!
People’s Choice – Homestyle:
Winner – Cherry Hot Chili (Grand Slam! - 4th year in a row!)
Runner Up – Chili the Kid
People’s Choice – Traditional:
Winner - Team Mad Stache
Runner Up - Lil’ Big Polish Red
Judges’ Choice – Homestyle:
Winner – Cherry Hot Chili
Runner Up – RC Chili Preppers
Judges’ Choice – Traditional:
Winner – Bridge Street Market
Runner Up – Brickhouse Chili
Kid’s Choice: Homestyle (new in 2026):
Winner - Seasoned Vets
Runner Up - Craig’s Crew
Kid’s Choice - Traditional:
Winner Brickhouse Chili
Runner Up - Lil’ Big Polish Red
Most Festive Team:
Winner – Watusi
Runner Up – Craig’s Crew