2019 Big Bear Chili Cook-Off

This article brought to you by Goodwin’s Market

Article and photos by Victoria Heerschap

The 2019 Big Bear Chili Cook-Off was a rousing success. This aromatic event was, as always, free to attend, and tasting tickets were made available for a small fee. Tasters had the opportunity to vote for their favorite chili in the people’s choice category. There was, of course, food aplenty, as well as a beer garden available to the adults. The Chill Garden certainly lived up to its name, providing a shady spot to sit and sip beer and wine. There was more to enjoy at the Cook-Off than just delicious chili and ice-cold beer; the live entertainment definitely delivered. The crowd was pleased by tunes from The Doo Wah Riders, Born Country, and South of Santa Fe.

The event featured many familiar faces from Big Bear’s Farmer’s Market, with offerings that spanned from leggings to fudge. There were activites aplenty for the younger set, including games, a bounce house, and a petting zoo, courtesy of Bear Valley Farms and their adorable animals.

As the exciting and mouthwatering day drew to a close, the winners of the coveted carved bear awards were announced:

Bear Valley Chili Master:

Broadway Café

People’s Choice Winner:

Cory Catalano

Youth Red Chili Winner:

Joseph Taylor

Veggie Chili Winner:

Ralph Hammond

Chili Verde Winner:

Jim Watson

Traditional Red Chili Winner:

Ken Hook

The winners received stunning carved bear trophies, along with cash prizes and the prestige of being the best on the mountain! The event was hosted by Visit Big Bear, who said that even if they didn’t receive an award, the contestants were all winners in their book! The Big Bear Chili Cook-Off will be back next year; do you think you’ve got what it takes to compete? Better get cooking!