Flavor, fundraising and friendly competition are coming to Del Ray with the return of the Del Ray Chili Cook Off this month.
The annual culinary competition by the Del Ray Citizens Association is open to individual and team entries from Del Ray residents. It will kick off at 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28 in the gymnasium at Commonwealth Academy.
This year’s cook-off is fundraising for La Tiendita, a community resource center established in 2024 at Mount Vernon Community School.
“La Tiendita serves as a vital community hub where families can access non-perishable food items, hygiene products, school supplies, and clothing,” DRCA said in a release. “Rooted in dignity and care, the Tiendita ensures that every student has the essential tools they need to arrive at school ready to learn and thrive.”
Attendees can expect a festive night of chili sampling along with brews from Port City Brewing Company. More refreshments will be provided by Rolling Sloanes Bakery and Jet’s Pizza — and the pizzeria’s mascot, “Jet Man,” is expected to appear. There will also be live music by Blue Dərth and a 50/50 raffle.
Contestant entry is $20 and comes with drink tickets, chili samples and a 2026 Del Ray Chili Cook Off apron. Rules for entry are available on the DRCA website.
A panel of judges will assess entries while considering “taste, aroma, texture, aftertaste, and heat of chili,” according to DRCA, with winners announced at 7:30 p.m.
“Contestants will compete for trophies and, of course, neighborhood bragging rights,” DRCA said.
Three prize categories will be awarded for the best meat and vegetarian chilis, as well as a “People’s Choice Award” decided by attendees.
Admission is $15 for DRCA members, $20 for non-DRCA members and free for kids under 12.
Photo via Del Ray Citizens Association/Facebook.
