2025 Chilly Cook-Off

Thursday, Jan. 23, 5 to 7 pm

@ the Mill (642 N. Madison St.)

 

Join the Hub as we kick off FreezeFest. We'll fight off the chilly winter weather with a chili cook-off featuring chefs from throughout our local community. You'll enjoy samples of each soup, vote for whom you think should earn the People's Choice Award, and see our panel of judges deliberate and determine who has the best overall, best vegetarian, and most creative chilis. ​

Try the unique Hoosier pairing of chilis and cinnamon roll with rolls from Two Sticks Bakery, and cool down your palate between with ice cream from Chocolate Moose. 

 

​​Check back in closer the the event to see our full lineup of chilis and our panel of judges!

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Thank you to our event sponsors Baugh Fine Print & Mailing, Chocolate Moose, No Dishes Podcast, and Two Sticks Bakery!

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Interested in being a chef?

Think you have the best chili in town? Have a recipe that's a hit at your family gatherings or a fresh take on chili that you want to share? Be one of our chili chefs! Sign up by printing this print registration form and dropping it in the mail or bringing it by the Hub, or sign up with our online chef registration form. Register by Jan. 9.

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Chefs will: 

• read and agree to follow the Chilly Cook-Off Guidelines and Food Safety Guidelines (sent via email),

• be available for setup from 2:30 to 4 pm the day of the event, 

• prepare 2 gallons of chili using their own selected recipe and ingredients, and

• bring chili to the event fully heated in crock pots or other warming containers.

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There is space for up to 20 chefs; chefs who reach out after the lineup is full will be added to a waitlist.​

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Interested in sponsoring this event?

Does your team want to join in the community of Freezefest, support an evening of family-friendly fun, and invest in local food security and community-focused programming as one of our event sponsors? Minimum sponsorship is $150, and event sponsors will receive 4 tickets for entry to the Cook-Off, their company name listed in event materials, their company logo on materials at the event and on the event website, and cross promotion on social media. Deadline for sponsorship is Dec. 13. 

To become a sponsor, send a check to Mother Hubbard's Cupboard with “Chilly Cook-Off sponsor” in memo, then send your logo and contact information to Erika at development@mhcfoodpantry.org so we can be in touch about your tickets and attendance as the event nears. Questions? Contact Erika at the email above or at 812-339-5887.

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Interested in volunteering and receiving free entry to the event?

Show your support for the Hub and gain free entry to the Cook-Off by volunteering! We need volunteer support throughout the event, with opportunities ranging from 2 to 8 pm. Tasks include: helping with merchandise/ticket tables, supporting chefs, and supporting our supply and drink stations. Email Megan at ceo@mhcfoodpantry.org or by phone at 812-339-5887.

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Tickets

Tickets are $20 and include portions of each of the up to 20 chilis, complementary crackers, water, and tea. 

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Can't attend but want to support? Consider buying sponsored tickets. Purchase tickets that we can give away to community members in the pantry, to remove barriers to accessing this fun community event. Tickets will be available at the door at online here.