The spicy aroma of simmering chili will fill the air when nearly 70 chili cooks from throughout the United States converge on Orland Park to compete in the village's “Chilly Willie Chili Challenge.” Back after a year break, the Chilly Willie Chili Challenge promises to be bigger than ever with new contests added.
The regional competition will be held on Saturday, Jan. 22, at the Orland Park Civic Center, 14750 S. Ravinia Ave.
The International Chili Society and the Chili Appreciation Society International will hold competitions for red chili and salsa, along with conducting two contests at this year’s event. Verde, a green chili, will be judged and a People’s Choice Award will be bestowed upon the winners. New this year are separate contests for men and women competing in the CASI Illinois Ladies’ State Chili and the Illinois Men’s State Chili contests. Prizes will be awarded to the winners in each category.
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ICS and CASI members and local cooks are invited to join the competition. Applications are available at the Franklin E. Loebe Recreation Center, 14650 S. Ravinia Ave. and on the village’s website at www.orland-park.il.us.
The winner of the ICS competition will qualify to compete in the World’s Championship Chili Cookoff. The CASI top 10 winners receive points to add to their total which will qualify cooks for their national competition held in Terlingua, Texas.
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Public tasting begins at 2 p.m. to determine the People’s Choice Award.
“As guests arrive, each will receive a ticket to leave with the cook of the chili they like best,” said Trustee Kathy Fenton, Special Events and Community Outreach Chairperson. “The cook with the most tickets at the end of the event will be declared the People’s Choice Award winner.”
About 100 judges are needed to judge this event in order to make it a success,” Fenton added. Any individuals interested in judging the challenge should contact Patty Vlazny at (708) 403-6145.
Proceeds from the event benefit Open Lands of Orland Park and Village of Orland Park’s Theatre Troupe.
For more information about Orland Park’s annual Chilly Willie Chili Challenge, call the Village of Orland Park Recreation and Parks Department at (708) 403-7275.
