S.C. Chili Cook-Off Set for April 20 in Belton

Greg Wilson/Anderson Observer

The fourteenth annual South Carolina Chili Cook-Off Championship is set for April 20, from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. in downtown Belton.

More than 31 professional chili cooks from across the United States and Canada will compete for a chance to make it to the World Championships in one of four categories: Red Chili, Chile Verde, Homestyle Chili and Salsa.

“We have 31 professional cooks signed up right now and are looking for more amateur competitors in the individual and organizational categories,” said S.C. Chili Cook-Off Co-chairman Gene Jameson in a news release. “It’s always fun to see this side of the competition heat up.”

Tasting ticket packets (5 tickets for $5) or a tasting band (unlimited tastes for $20) will be available. Peak hours for tasting are expected to be between 11 a.m-2 p.m. Tasters will cast votes for favorites.

Proceeds from the band and ticket sales benefit six Belson non-profits including the Belton Alliance, the Belton Area Museum Association, the Belton Center for the Arts, the Belton Interfaith Ministries Association, American Legion Post #51, and the Belton Masonic Lodge #130-Christmas for Kids program.

In addition to the chili, visitors can view artwork at the Belton Center for the Arts and experience the history of the area at the Belton Area Museum Association. Children’s activities, FFA plant/flower sale, crafts and food are also set to be part of the event.

A vintage vehicle cruise-in is also on the schedule from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on North Main Street.