"Fire in the Bowl" Battle of the Badges Chili Cook Off

Event Details – Fire in the Bowl: Battle of the Badges Chili Cook-Off

When: Saturday, November 22, 2025 | 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Where: Side Hustle Brewing Co. | 10 Buck Island Rd, Suite 200, Bluffton, SC

Join us for the inaugural Fire in the Bowl: Battle of the Badges Chili Cook-Off, hosted by Side Hustle Brewing Co. and benefiting the Bluffton Firefighter Foundation. This friendly competition brings together Bluffton’s first responders for an afternoon of outstanding chili, community spirit, and family fun.

Admission:
- Adults: $10
- Kids (ages 5–12): $5
- Children under 5: Free

All proceeds benefit the Bluffton Firefighter Foundation, which supports firefighters and their families in times of need and funds community outreach programs throughout Bluffton.

Competition Details

There is no entry fee this year for teams entering the competition. Teams may consist of shifts, stations, or administrative personnel from any area first responder agency.

Each team should prepare enough chili to serve 1-ounce samples for approximately 400 people. The Bluffton Firefighter Foundation will provide 2-ounce sample cups and spoons.

The Foundation will also serve the main chili along with hot dogs, chips, cornbread, and desserts for guests.
Teams must bring their own ingredients and cooking equipment, including pots, ladles, extension cords, propane, and grills as needed.

Setup and Participation:
Teams must be ready to serve at 2:00 PM and remain for the full duration of the event until 5:00 PM. Teams may rotate members but should maintain a presence throughout.
Side Hustle Brewing Co. will offer its full selection of craft beverages, soft drinks, and water for purchase.

Judging and Awards

Each paying adult attendee will receive one voting ticket per participating team. Votes will determine the People’s Choice award. Voting closes at 4:30 PM, and winners will be announced at 5:00 PM.

Awards:
- Chefs’ Choice: $100
- People’s Choice: $100
- Best of Show: Cooking prize package

Teams are encouraged to get creative—decorate your booth, dress up, and have fun! Showmanship and spirit are just as important as your chili when it comes to winning Best of Show.

Registration

To enter your team in the Fire in the Bowl: Battle of the Badges Chili Cook-Off, contact Leslie Jones at bGpvbmVzaGFydCB8IHlhaG9vICEgY29t or call (843) 368-1590 by November 1, 2025.

Suggestions, questions, or rule clarifications may also be directed to Leslie.

About the Cause

The Bluffton Firefighter Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Bluffton Township Fire District personnel and their families during times of crisis. The Foundation also provides resources for community programs that promote fire and life safety education across southern Beaufort County.

Join us for an afternoon of food, fun, and friendly competition—all for a great cause. Bring your appetite, your family, and your community pride to cheer on your favorite first responder teams at Bluffton’s first-ever Fire in the Bowl: Battle of the Badges Chili Cook-Off.

Also check out other Contests in Bluffton, Nonprofit events in Bluffton, Food & Drink events in Bluffton.