Del Ray Chili Cook-off To Benefit Friends Of Guest House

ALEXANDRIA, VA — There are plenty of ways to make chili, from Texas style without beans to bean-based vegetarian chilis. Residents will square off to claim bragging rights for the best chili in Del Ray at the seventh annual Chili Cook-off Saturday, Feb. 22 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The Del Ray Citizens Association will host the event in the Commonwealth Academy gym, 1321 Leslie Avenue.

The event lets local residents compete in a number of categories as well as raise money for community projects. This year's event proceeds go to Friends of Guest House, which supports women transitioning from incarceration into the community.

Cash prizes are given out for best chili in different categories: meat, vegetarian and people's choice. The competition is open to Del Ray residents, and applications were due on Feb. 19.

Tickets to attend are available online until 3 p.m. Saturday and at the door. Tickets include chili tastes and four beer tickets. The price is $10 for non-Del Ray Citizens Association members and free for Del Ray Citizens Association members. Membership is available at delraycitizens.org or at the door.

A few volunteer slots remain as of Friday afternoon. Volunteers receive free entry and beer tickets.