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 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 - 2025
2025 Chili CookOff at the Ballpark Winners!
People’s Choice – Homestyle:
Winner – Cherry Hot Chili (3rd year in a row!)
Runner Up – The Hot Takes
People’s Choice – Traditional:
Tie for Winner!
52nd Street Smokers & Mad-Stache
Judge’s Choice – Homestyle:
Winner – Chili Mechanics
Runner Up – V-Dog Chili
Judge’s Choice – Traditional:
Winner – Poker Face
Runner Up – Mad-Stache
Most Festive Team:
Winner – Shenandoah Sunshine
Runner Up – SILVA Shenanigans