If you’ve been around Birmingham for any stretch of time, chances are you’ve seen the signs (literally) or heard of the legendary Annual Chili Cook-Off hosted by the Exceptional Foundation. What started as a small community gathering has become a can’t-miss annual tradition, drawing thousands of attendees each year. (Last year alone, 14,000 people attended.)
This year, on Saturday, March 7, the Exceptional Foundation’s 22nd Annual Chili Cook-Off is moving to a new home: The Urban Center at Liberty Park in Vestavia Hills (1000 Urban Center Dr.). Here’s what to expect:
FOOD + FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN
From 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., savor all-you-can-eat chili, sip beverages—including beer from Good People Brewing and Avondale Brewing—and enjoy live music at the Exceptional Foundation’s largest event of the year. Feel free to send your kiddos to the kids’ zone so they can have fun, too (just maybe before they consume too much chili… if you know what I mean). And did I mention kids 12 and under are free?!
NEW LOCATION, SAME GREAT VIBES
Whether you’re an annual attendee or it’s your first time, the chili competition’s new location promises to be as amazing as ever.
“After over 20 years of memories in Homewood, we’re excited to bring the Chili Cook-Off to Liberty Park and share this tradition with even more of our community,” says Sara Newell, President of The Exceptional Foundation. “We are so grateful for the Homewood support that helped this event grow, and we look forward to continuing that spirit in Vestavia Hills.”
COMPETITORS BRING THE HEAT
Nothing like some good old-fashioned competition to spice things up! Guests can expect the same fun atmosphere in this new location, plus more than 100 teams serving up their best chili recipes—from family secrets to daring new blends. (Last year’s Chili Cook-Off featured 138 cook teams—we’ll see how many are cooking something up this year.)
Sample until your heart’s content—or your belly’s full—then vote for your favorites. Needless to say, you won’t want to miss this showdown.
SUPPORT AN EXCEPTIONAL CAUSE
Plus, all proceeds go directly to The Exceptional Foundation’s programs for adults and youth with intellectual disabilities. Think of it this way: You get to fill your belly, have fun, and help fund an incredible local nonprofit that offers year-round social and recreational opportunities for individuals with special needs. Talk about eating for a good cause!
GET YOUR TICKETS NOW & SAVE $5
You can snag your tickets for $15 in advance or buy them day-of for $20. Be sure to bring the kids so they can load up on a free meal: Children 12 and under are free. Visit exceptionalfoundation.org to learn more or buy your tickets. See you there!
