Name: Sunset Beach Chili Cook-off
Start: 2026-09-19T11:00:00-07:00
End: 2026-09-19T17:00:00-07:00
Location: Sunset Beach Community Building.. StK's

Sunset Beach
About this Event

"SPICE UP YOUR SUMMER AT THE 27TH ANNUAL SUNSET BEACH CHILI COOKOFF:
A SIZZLING CELEBRATION OF FLAVOR AND COMMUNITY!"

Grab your appetite and your dancing shoes because the 27th Annual Sunset Beach Chili Cookoff is back, and it's hotter than ever, ready to set the stage for a day of mouthwatering delights, live classic rock and heartfelt giving. Join us on Saturday, September 19, from 11 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the vibrant Sunset Beach Community Center, located at 16861 12th Street (at PCH).

This mouthwatering event, proudly sponsored by the Sunset Beach Womans Club (SBWC), is not just a culinary showdown; it's a heartwarming initiative to support local students through scholarships. "Last year, we celebrated distributing 14 scholarships to talented local students thanks to the success of our 2025 Chili Cookoff. This year, our goal is even loftier – to award 20 scholarships and set a new record!" declares Dawn McCormack, co-President of SBWC, with evident excitement.

Chili Showdown and Beyond: Prepare for a showdown of epic proportions as chili connoisseurs battle it out for the coveted trophies and the ultimate bragging rights. A panel of discerning judges will crown the champions. But that's not all! This fiesta is jam-packed with classic rock beats courtesy of Cat Reed and the Back Alley, as well as beer and wine to quench your thirst for fun.

More Than Just Chili: While the chili is the star of the show, the fun doesn't stop there. Picture this: live auction featuring art, staycation at the Waterfront Hilton, a Duffy boat cruise for six, and even a thrilling helicopter Ride-along in HB Police HB-1.

Community Spirit and Giving Back: Dawn McCormack, SBWC President is a driving force behind the club's mission since its inception in 1929. Dawn proudly represents a group of 70+ enthusiastic members who not only organize fantastic events like this cookoff but also volunteer tirelessly for various community projects. As she puts it, "Our members are all about embracing our community, both in terms of having a blast together and in working hand-in-hand to uplift Sunset Beach. In fact, a generous portion of the Chili Cookoff proceeds will be donated to the Sunset Beach Community Center, nurturing it as a hub for local gatherings and events." In addition, the chili cookoff proceeds provide funds for the HB Jr. Lifeguards program.

Tickets and Joining the Fiesta: Don't miss out on the fun and the chance to make a difference! Chili Cookoff tickets are priced at a mouthwatering $20, with children under 5 getting in absolutely free.

Secure your spot by snagging tickets on Eventbrite or simply swing by at the door on the event day. And guess what? Free parking awaits you right next to the Community Center.
Kids 5 and under are FREE!

3:00 Live Auction Begins - Silent Auction Concludes
*Night stay and $100 food credit at Hilton Waterfront Resort, Huntington Beach
*One-Hour Ride-Along in HB Police Helicopter
*Fine Art - and More

Admission Tickets Sold at the Gate or advance on Eventbrite
Festivities include:
Classic VW Bus Display from Kowabunga Van Klan
Beer and Wine sales
HB Marine Safety Display & Activities
Food vendors
Dance to the Music by Cat Reed & Back Alley Band
Silent Auction
Silent and Live Auction - Auctioneer Tommy T and Mr. Huntington Beach and Beef Palace owner, Calvin Free
HB Visitors Bureau
Sponsor and Displays featuring: