Grand Rapids’ most popular Chili CookOff is back in season. Brought to you by… Two Beards Deli & Catering!

Date for 2025 is Saturday, September 27.
At historic Sullivan (formerly Valley) Field.
650 Valley Ave NW - Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Benefitting Fans of Valley Field. (all proceeds go toward the activation and renovation of the ballpark)

Ballpark opens to public 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 (Hot Dog Cart & Taco Truck) while you wait for the chili tasting time. There is no on-site parking. Street parking only. No parking on the grass area along Valley Ave. Entry/gate is on north side of the block/park - on Sixth Street. You may unload and leave your chairs, blankets, etc. at the front gate as you find parking. Please be sure not to block the neighbors’ driveways. Lawn seating only - so bring chairs! 3 fun Bands!
All ages welcome. Will have yard games out for the kiddos!

We are a 100% volunteer-run organization. All proceeds go directly to ballpark activation and renovation!

Note! Outside coolers with food and SEALED beverages are allowed, but NO OUTSIDE ALCOHOL can be brought in - per state law. (Please do not sneak it in - as we could lose our license. Coolers will be checked.) Dogs on leash are allowed - please clean up! Lawn seating only, so bring a chair.

Blankets, umbrellas and canopies are also allowed (and encouraged during hot weather) - please be courteous of others’ view in setting them up. See “Tickets” section for ticket purchases.

Lisa_Dan_Verhil.jpg

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.

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