Chilly weather is upon us here in Huntsville and that can only mean one thing — it’s time for the 3rd Annual Rocket City Chili Cook-Off.
Name of the Game 
With teams touting names like Habanero Hotties, Apple Bottom Beans and Chili’s Angels, this year’s event is sure to be a competition like no other. Aside from great food and fabulous fellowship, the chili cook-off is a worthwhile event because all proceeds go to two great causes!
Proceeds from the cook-off benefit the National Children’s Advocacy Center (NCAC) and the Connect ALL Scholarship Fund through Leadership Huntsville/Madison County (LHMC).
As a both LHMC Connect Program scholarship recipient and graduate and someone who has seen first-hand the amazing work of the NCAC, words cannot express how worthy this cause truly is.
SCHEDULE
You’re hooked aren’t you? Great! Now here are all the details…
- 6:30 am Grounds open and set-up begins
- 7:00-8:00 am Meat inspection! Cooking can begin as soon as your meat has been inspected.
- 8:00 am Captain’s Meeting
- 10:00 am Event opens to the public
- 10:00 am – 1:00 pm Moon bounce and music
- 11:00 am Chili turn in to judges
- 11:00 am-noon People’s Choice
- 12:15 pm Jalapeno Eating Contest (registration for this will be done on-site on the day of the event only)
- 1:00 pm Awards presentation
All About the Chili
There will be an optional, free “Chili Class” on Monday, October 29th at 5:00 pm at the NCAC where you will have an opportunity to talk with previous winners and judges to gain better understanding of the process.
And just to clarify, for the purposes of this cook-off chili is defined as any kind of spicy, stew-like dish cooked with chili peppers, meat (optional) and/or beans (optional). Various other spices and ingredients may be added, including rice and pasta.
Contestants will compete in three different chili categories:
- Traditional Chili: a chili with NO BEANS– defined as any kind of meat or combination of meats, cooked with chili peppers, spices and other ingredients.
- Chili with Beans: any kind of meat or combination of meats, cooked with chili peppers, spices and other ingredients.
- Other Chili or Anything Goes: any kind of meat or combination of meats, cooked with spices and other ingredients, including beans, pasta, and fillers.
About the NCAC
Each year, thousands of people from the United States and around the world are trained right here in Huntsville on how to recognize and support endangered children. More than 54,000 child abuse professionals from all 50 states and 20 countries have been trained by the NCAC. The work of the NCAC serves as a beacon of hope for more than 250,000 child abuse victims every year. Learn more about the work of the NCAC on their website.
About Leadership
The programs offered through LHMC identify proven and emerging leaders across all local sectors who have an interest in becoming more engaged in our community. LHMC educates participants about community issues, how they can impact progress and works to inspire them to serve as agents of change throughout the community. You can learn more about LHMC by visiting their website.
Sign Up
So what are you waiting for Huntsville? Pull out that secret chili recipe, grab three friends and a pot and make some chili for cause!
- For information about event rules and registration visit the Leadership website.
- Got questions? Email Jenny Askins here.
Hope to see you there!
Event Information
Date: Saturday, November 17, 2012
Time: 10am-1pm
Location: National Children’s Advocacy Center Campus
Address: 210 Pratt Avenue Huntsville, AL 35801
About the Author

Guest blogger for We Are Huntsville. Are you interested in writing a post for our site? Email katelyn@wearehuntsville.com.
Thanks Kristin! Great write up for a fabulous event. We are excited to see everyone in a few weeks!
Ηola! I’ve been reading your web site for a while now and finally got the bravery to go ahead and give you a shout out from Humble Texas! Just wanted to tell you keep up the great job!