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Think Wild is seeking contestants for the 3rd Annual Get Wild Chili Cook-Off, presented by Volvo of Bend and returning Saturday, November 7, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon.
The fall fundraiser brings together local restaurants, professional chefs, amateur cooks, and community members for an evening of chili tasting and friendly competition, all in support of Think Wild’s wildlife hospital, conservation, and education programs across Central and Eastern Oregon.
Contestants will prepare and serve their favorite chili or side dish to event attendees and compete for awards in five categories:
- Best All Around – Professional Chef
- Best All Around – Amateur Chef
- Wildest Chili – spicy recipes, unique ingredients, creative presentations, and other unconventional entries
- Best Vegan or Vegetarian Chili
Best Chili Side Dish
Think Wild welcomes experienced competitors and first-time contestants alike. Individuals, restaurants, food trucks, businesses, community groups, and other local organizations are encouraged to participate.
Contestants should plan to prepare enough food for approximately 400 2 oz tastings and to serve their dish for the duration of the event. Think Wild will provide tasting cups, spoons, electrical access, and extension cords. Contestants may also bring one helper to assist with serving and breaks, and both the contestant and helper will receive complimentary event admission. Winners in each category will take home great prizes, including gift certificates to local restaurants, hand-carved spoons from a local woodworker, and a custom Think Wild apron!
All chili and other temperature-controlled foods must be prepared in an approved commercial kitchen and follow appropriate food safety guidelines for preparation, heating, cooling, storage, and service. Think Wild will provide commercial kitchen space the day before the event to make participation more accessible to amateur cooks. Contestants may also use an approved restaurant, food truck, catering, school, church, or community kitchen if they have access to one. Non-temperature-controlled side dishes, such as cornbread, may be prepared in a home kitchen.
Event Details
Saturday, November 7, 2026
4–7p.m.
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon
61980 Skyline Ranch Road, Bend, Oregon
Those who would rather taste and judge than compete can also join the fun. Admission includes one sample of every competing chili and side dish. Early bird tickets are $45 for adults and $20 for youth ages 12 and under, while children under 3 attend free. Reserved tables for eight are available for $500.
The event includes live music, raffles, an ice cream cart, beer, wine, and n/a beverages for purchase, and opportunities to support Think Wild while enjoying delicious food and fun vibes.
Thank you to event sponsors Volvo of Bend (presenting sponsor), Ally Bank, Bennington Properties, Abracadabra Printing and Design, Van Henion Brewing, and Autry’s Florist. All proceeds will support Think Wild’s work to rescue and rehabilitate injured and orphaned native wildlife, provide wildlife education, and advance conservation projects throughout Central and Eastern Oregon.
Interested contestants are encouraged to sign up early to reserve their spot in the competition: https://www.thinkwildco.org/chili-cookoff/
