Elicottville,NY
The neighborhood is about to get a whole lot tastier as local cooks face off for the title of ultimate chili champion.
On Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 4-7pm, the upstairs at Madigans fill with the rich aromas of simmering beef, secret spice blends, and fierce friendly competition. The occasion is the 3rd Annual Rotary Club of Ellicottville’s Chili Cook-Off Fundraiser, a festive autumn tradition that raises crucial funding for regional civic projects. All proceeds from the event are funneled directly into the community, benefiting area youth leadership programs, educational scholarships, local mental health resources, and hands-on community beautification projects that restore, clean and green our shared public spaces.
For community members looking to sample the savory creations, tasting tickets are priced at $15 at the door. Each ticket acts as an all-access pass to unlimited chili samples, giving attendees the power to cast their vote for the highly competitive People’s Choice Award.
For those looking to secure a spot ahead of time, early-bird discounted tickets are available exclusively online through September 19.
The fundraiser is designed to be a complete evening of weekend entertainment. In addition to live music provided by the area’s own Tom Dietrick, attendees can browse and participate in several fundraising opportunities such as the 50/50 drawing, themed basket raffle packed with gift collections curated and donated by local businesses, and the silent online auction, a digital marketplace showcasing high-valued local goods and unique experiences which can be bid on through mobile devices from anywhere.
The Rotary Club is actively calling on backyard barbecue masters, home chefs, and professional culinary teams to put their money where their spice is.
For a $25 entry fee, any cook can register a pot of chili to claim ultimate bragging rights in the village. The registration fee explicitly covers the contestant’s own event tasting ticket, allowing them to scope out the competition.
To lock in a chef slot, secure advanced general admission tickets, preview the silent auction registry, or make a direct donation to the civic group, visit the official page at https://EVLRotary2026.auctria.events