Ellicottville Chili Cook-Off Returns September 26 for 3rd Annual Rotary Fundraiser
Taste your way through Ellicottville’s best chili recipes while supporting local food, youth, scholarship, mental health and community projects.
ELLICOTTVILLE - The Rotary Club of Ellicottville is heating up the autumn season with its highly anticipated 3rd annual Chili Cook-Off fundraiser on Saturday, September 26, 2026 from 4:00-7:00pm at Madigan’s, located at 36 Washington Street.
Residents and visitors are invited to taste a variety of chili recipes, enjoy live entertainment, and in turn support important local community service projects, including the food pantry, area youth leadership programs, scholarships, mental health initiatives, and local community beautification efforts.
Tasting tickets are available for $15 at the door and include unlimited chili samples along with a vote to help determine the coveted People’s Choice award winner. Attendees looking to save can purchase discounted tasting tickets online through September 19.
In addition to a wide array of chilis, the event features a packed lineup of entertainment and fundraising activities, including live music provided by local musician Tom Dietrick performing throughout the afternoon, a 50/50 drawing, a basket raffle with dozens of themed gift baskets donated by local businesses, and a silent online auction with high-value items and experiences open for bidding.
Do you have a chili recipe that beats the rest? Amateur cooks, local chefs, and backyard culinary enthusiasts can enter the competition online for a $25 registration fee. The entry fee includes a full event tasting ticket and the chance to claim ultimate bragging rights as Ellicottville’s chili champion. Space is limited, so contestants are encouraged to register early.
To enter as a contestant, buy advanced discounted tasting tickets, participate in the online auction, or donate directly to the Rotary, visit EVLRotary2026.auctria.events.