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We champion every Buckeye.

Licking County: Chili Cook-Off

Join us for a fun evening of chili, Buckeye camaraderie and friendly competition.

join us text with a scarlet and white buckeye leaf
Date
Sep 9, 2026
Cost
Free
Time
5 p.m. - 7 p.m. ET
Location

The Ohio State University at Newark - McConnell Hall in Jones Event Center 

1000 LeFevre Blvd

Newark, OH 43055

Event description

You're invited to the Ohio State Alumni Club of Licking County Chili Cook-Off on September 9! Bring your appetite and maybe your secret recipe for a fun evening of chili, Buckeye camaraderie and friendly competition. 

Think your chili has what it takes? Enter your favorite recipe for a chance to win Best Chili, a championship trophy and Buckeye bragging rights. More than 300 Ohio State Newark students will serve as judges, making this a one-of-a-kind competition. Not cooking? Join us for unlimited chili tasting, cornbread, cookies and the chance to connect with fellow Buckeyes while supporting local student scholarships. 

For chili entry, bring one crockpot of hot ready-to-serve chili with unlimited chili tasting included. Electrical outlets are available (extension cords welcome). For tasting, there is no cost to participate or attend. 

In lieu of an entry fee, we will accept cash donations to support our scholarship fund or a non-perishable food item to benefit the Ohio State Newark Food Pantry. Whether you're competing or simply tasting, this family-friendly event is a great way to reconnect with fellow Buckeyes, meet Ohio State Newark students and enjoy a fun evening together.

Schedule

5-5:30 p.m. – chili check-in and setup 

5:30–6:30 p.m. – tasting and judging 

6:30–7 p.m. – winner announced

Registration

Please register online before September 2 so we can plan for food and seating.

Questions

Pleas email any questions to Amy Mangus.