Chili Cook Off
A Community Fundraiser for the Crystal Lakes Volunteer Fire Department
May 30 | Basecamp Community Center | 5:00 p.m.
Get ready for one of the most fun (and delicious!) community events of the spring!
Our annual Chili Cookoff brings together neighbors from Crystal Lakes and Red Feather Lakes for an evening of friendly competition, great food, and community connection — all in support of the Crystal Lakes Volunteer Fire Department.
We’re planning for a full house this year and hope to expand onto the patio to accommodate even more attendees if the weather cooperates.
Come taste. Vote. Visit with neighbors. Support your local volunteers.
A fun, high-energy fundraiser with real impact close to home.
Taste. Vote. Support Your Fire Department.
Our Chili Cook Off celebrates what makes this area special — neighbors showing up for one another. Join us for an evening of great food, laughter, and meaningful support for the volunteers who serve Crystal Lakes year-round.
What to Expect
Dozens of homemade chili and cornbread entries
People’s Choice voting and judged voting with Chief Clark, Chief Hill, and a guest judge.
Prizes for top competitors
Desserts and refreshments
Outdoor patio seating (weather permitting)
A lively, welcoming community atmosphere
There is no cost to attend the Chili Cookoff.
Instead, we’ll have a firefighter boot at the entrance for donations, with a recommended contribution of $20 or more per person.
Every dollar collected supports the Crystal Lakes Volunteer Fire Department — helping fund training, equipment, and emergency response capabilities that serve our entire community.
Come enjoy the evening, give what you can, and help us make a meaningful impact.
Why It Matters
Our firefighters are volunteers. They train year-round, respond to emergencies in all seasons, and stand ready to protect our homes, families, and forests. Fundraisers like this help offset the costs of training, equipment, and ongoing operational needs that aren’t always fully covered elsewhere.
Your donations from this event help:
Support firefighter training and certifications
Maintain and upgrade essential equipment
Strengthen emergency response capabilities
Ensure our department remains prepared for wildfire season
Just as important, this event strengthens something less tangible but equally valuable — community connection. When neighbors gather to support the people who serve them, it reinforces the shared commitment that makes Crystal Lakes such a special place to live.
By attending, tasting, donating, or volunteering, you’re helping ensure your volunteer fire department remains strong, prepared, and ready when called.
Interested in Competing?
Think you’ve got award-winning chili — or legendary cornbread?
We’re inviting bold cooks and brave competitors to enter this year’s Chili Cook Off! Categories are open to:
Traditional chili
Creative or specialty chili
Vegan chili
Cornbread
This is no small endeavor — chili contestants are asked to prepare 8 quarts to ensure there’s plenty for sampling throughout the evening. A $25 entry fee helps support the fundraiser and confirms your spot in the competition.
Prizes will be awarded, and we’re working to make them even better this year to attract serious (and seriously fun) competition.
Whether you’re a seasoned chili master or entering for the first time, this is your chance to claim bragging rights and support your local volunteer fire department at the same time.
Volunteers and Sponsors Needed
Volunteers Make It Happen
It takes a team behind the scenes to make the Chili Cookoff run smoothly.
We’re looking for volunteers to help with:
Serving samples
Keeping beverage stations stocked
Rotating and washing trays
Decorating before the event
Assisting with desserts
Cleanup afterward
Even a couple of hours makes a big difference — and you’ll still have time to enjoy the event.
Local Business Sponsorship Opportunities
We invite surrounding area businesses to partner with us.
Sponsorship levels range from $75–$500, with benefits including:
Logo placement on event signage
Social media recognition
Event-day announcements
Optional display/table space (select levels)
Sponsorships help cover event costs like winner prizes, chili cups, décor, and beverages — allowing more proceeds to directly benefit the department.
Thank you to our sponsors:
