Fort Lauderdale, FL (February 11, 2026) – Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale is proud to announce the 10th Annual Riverwalk Chili Cook-off on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Esplanade Park in downtown Fort Lauderdale, leading up to National Chili Day on Thursday, February 26. This beloved community tradition brings together amateur and professional chefs for a flavorful competition that celebrates local nonprofits and builds community spirit.
The Riverwalk Chili Cook-off gives participants the chance to compete for the prestigious title of “Best Chili in Fort Lauderdale.” Attendees can purchase tasting cups, sample unique chilies and cast votes to determine the winner, making this an interactive culinary experience for the whole community. The team with the most votes not only claims bragging rights but also earns a paid entry into the Last Chance Chili Challenge at the World Championship Chili Cook-offs (WCCC).
More than just a cooking competition, the Chili Cook-off serves as a platform for participating teams to raise funds and awareness for a chosen nonprofit. By cooking and serving chili, teams help promote important community causes in a fun and relaxed environment. This years event will feature at least six returning teams including the winners and runners up from the previous two events, as well as several new comers!
Admission to the event is free, thanks to the generous support of sponsors and partners. This year’s featured sponsors include Morningstar Storage – Fat Village, Go Riverwalk Magazine and S. Mark Graphics. Businesses and organizations interested in sponsoring or participating can email events@GoRiverwalk.com for details.
“After 10 years we can truly say that the Riverwalk Chili Cook-off is more than a food competition – it’s a celebration of community connection,” said Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale president and CEO Eugenia Duncan Ellis. “We’re proud to host an event that uplifts local nonprofits, brings people together and highlights the vibrant spirit of our downtown Riverwalk District.”
For team applications or additional information, please contact matt@GoRiverwalk.com. Event details are available at GoRiverwalk.com/chili.
About Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale, Inc.
Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization responsible for the programming, beautification and activation of Riverwalk Park and the Riverwalk District. Composed primarily of volunteer private citizens and overseen by a board of directors, all members uphold the organization’s directive, as stated in its mission statement, “to be the catalyst in building and nurturing Riverwalk and the Riverwalk District as a vibrant community connected by the New River.” Funding for this mission comes from hosting a wide range of fundraising, networking and membership events, grants, and by publishing local information on our informative website and in Go Riverwalk Magazine.