The aroma of simmering spices, the buzz of friendly competition, and the laughter of family fun are all set to return to downtown Belton on Saturday, April 18, for the much-anticipated 16th Annual South Carolina State Chili Cook-off Championship.
Hosted on Belton City Square at 100 N. Main Street, this lively cook-off runs from 10 AM to 4 PM with chili tasting kicking off around 11 AM.
This sanctioned event under the International Chili Society (ICS) umbrella brings together talented cooks from across the region and beyond to compete in categories including Traditional Red, Homestyle, Chili Verde, and Vegetarian Chili — with cash prizes, distinctive trophies, and a spot at the ICS World Championship on the line for top professionals.
But you don’t have to just watch — you can taste! Purchase a 5-tasting ticket pack for just $5, or go big with an unlimited tasting wristband for $20 and sample every chili under the sun beginning at 11 am til the chili runs out. Tasters also get to cast a “People’s Choice” vote for their favorite recipe.
While chili is the star attraction, there’s plenty more to enjoy throughout the day:
College intramural teams compete at The Belton Bash Collegiate Tennis Tourney (8 am – 5 pm).
Take in some fresh produce at the opening day of the Belton Farmer’s Market and participate in Fish Camps and Fireflies Tour (9 am – 1 pm).
Walk through or bring your car to the Chili Pepper Cruise-In on the Square featuring vintage and antique cars (9:30 am – 2:30 pm).
Immerse yourself in local history on a museum tour at the Belton Area Museum Association (10 am – 4 pm).
Take home spring plants offered by the BHP FFA and purchase a chance at a 50/50 raffle drawing to be held at end of the festival (10 am – 4 pm).
Shop the many handmade and culinary items crafters offer for sale (10 am – 5 pm)
Listen and dance to live music from talented local performers like The Combo Kings (11 am – 4 pm).
Come meet Miss SC Sarah Kay Wrenn who will make an appearance and judge a few rounds (12 noon- 5 pm).
Want to Join the Cook-off competition? Both seasoned chili pros and enthusiastic amateurs are invited to compete. If amateur competition whets your appetite, visit www.scchilicookoff.com. If you’re wanting to compete as a professional, join as an ICS member and register at www.chilicookoff.com. Whether you’re entering a secret family recipe or cheering on the cooks, this festival promises a day of fiery flavors and warm Southern hospitality.
Proceeds from tasting ticket sales benefit six local non-profits that support the arts, history, youth programs, and emergency services in the Belton community.
With the tasting band, ticket sales, and sponsorships in 2025, the SC State Chili Cook-off Championship was able to distribute $27,000 to the American Legion Post #51, the Belton Masonic Lodge #130, the Belton Area Museum Association, the Belton Center for the Arts, the Belton Alliance, and the Belton Interfaith Ministries Association.
So grab your friends and family, bring a big appetite, and make your way to Belton this April 18— because the South Carolina State Chili Cook-off is where the heat meets the heart!
