Fall Marketplace Festival Chili Cook‑Off

Think your chili is the best in town? Here’s your chance to prove it!
Join us for one of the most anticipated highlights of the Fall Marketplace Festival — the Chili Cook‑Off. This friendly competition blends the joy of great food with the warmth of community, all while raising funds for Emmanuel SDA Children’s Ministry.

Whether you’re a seasoned chili champion or a first‑time competitor, your participation helps create a safe, Christ‑centered space where children can grow in faith, discover their gifts, and serve others.

Event Details

• Date: Sunday, October 19, 2025

• Location: Emmanuel Seventh‑day Adventist Church, 1111 Boone Street, Cleburne, TX 76031

• Entry Fee: $20 — treated as a non‑refundable charitable contribution to Emmanuel SDA Children’s Ministry in accordance with IRS 501(c)(3) rules for churches, State of Texas, and City of Cleburne nonprofit compliance requirements.

• Booth Size: 10x10 ft space (includes 1 table & 2 chairs)

• Setup Time: 10:45 AM – 11:30 AM

• Tasting Opens: 12:15 PM

• Voting Closes: 1:30 PM

• Awards Ceremony: 2:00 PM

• Deadline to Enter: Sunday, October 12, 2025 or until spaces are filled (max 20 contestants)

Competition Categories

>> Traditional Texas Red (no beans) <<

>> Veggie/Vegan/Alternative Protein <<

>> Most Unique/Creative <<

Prizes include category trophies, special awards for Best Decorated Table and Fan Favorite, and commemorative ribbons for all participants.

Rules & Requirements

Dietary Compliance

• All entries must comply with Leviticus 11 dietary guidelines — no prohibited meats or ingredients.

• View/Download Prohibited Foods List — you must click, download, and keep this list for reference when preparing your chili.

Food Preparation

• Chili must be fully prepared and cooked prior to arrival.

• Contestants will reheat/keep warm on‑site using approved warming equipment (crockpots, electric roasters, etc.).

• No on‑site raw meat preparation is allowed.

Ingredient Restrictions

• No home‑canned ingredients.

• No nuts or peanut oil permitted.

Allergen Labeling

• All entries must have a printed ingredient list displayed at your booth.

• Common allergens (milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy, sesame) must be clearly identified.

• An official allergen labeling template will be emailed to you after registration — you must use this template (or an exact replica) to meet compliance requirements.

Food Safety Compliance

• Contestants must follow:

  • Texas Department of State Health Services – Food Establishments

  • City of Cleburne – Food Safety Rules & Temporary Event Guidelines

• You must click, download, and keep these documents for reference when preparing your chili.

On‑Site Conduct

• Maintain a clean and safe booth area.

• Follow all instructions from event staff and safety monitors.

Why Enter?

>>> Support a Mission: Every entry fee helps fund Children’s Ministry programs, curriculum, and facility improvements. <<<

>>> Share Your Talent: Showcase your culinary skills to the community. <<<

>>> Enjoy Fellowship: Connect with fellow cooks, neighbors, and festival guests in a joyful, Christ‑centered setting. <<<

How to Enter

1. Click the Register for the Chili Cook‑Off button below.

2. Complete the online registration form, including compliance acknowledgments.

3. Submit your $20 entry fee via the secure payment link provided at the end of the form.

4. Watch your email for confirmation, your booth assignment, and the allergen labeling template.

[ Register for the Chili Cook‑Off ]

Compliance & Safety Notes

• All participation is voluntary and unpaid.

• Entry fees are non‑refundable charitable contributions.

• Contestants are responsible for following all dietary, safety, and labeling rules.

• Failure to comply with any requirement may result in disqualification.