Vendors
Vendor spaces are available for both commercial and non-profit vendors. Commercial vendors pay $250 for premium space with electricity. Non-profit groups can participate for free but must provide their own tables or pay $25 for one.
Vendor tent setup starts at 8:00 a.m. All vehicles must be moved by 9:30 a.m., with parking available at Pullman Square or downtown street parking.
ChiliFest 2024
P.O. Box 523
Huntington, WV 25710-0523
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- Is it required to fill out both the form above and the ICS website application to participate?
If you intend to compete as an ICS member, yes. If you only intend to be eligible for People’s Choice awards and are not an ICS member, no.
- Do you need to be an ICS member to be eligible for People’s Choice awards?
No.
- If I register in the ICS competition, am I automatically eligible for People’s Choice awards?
Yes.
- Do I have to pay for an ICS Membership to compete in Chilifest?
An ICS Membership is required to participate in the Red, Verde, and Homestyle categories. However, it is not required for the People’s Choice categories.
- What are the entry fees?
Chilifest entry fees range from $30-100, depending on the category. ICS categories (Red, Verde, and Homestyle) also require an ICS membership, which may require additional fees.
ARRIVAL
All cooking teams should plan to arrive starting at 8:00 am, Saturday, October 12th to set up. You will need to enter the cookoff area at 3rd Avenue by way of 8th Street and come to the Registration/Judging Tent to register. Please unload your equipment after registration and move your vehicle outside the cookoff area to one of the parking garages or other nearby lots. Vehicles should be out of the cookoff area no later than 9:30 am. A reminder that any vehicle parked in the Pullman Square street area is subject to towing.
DAY OF REGISTRATION
JUDGING
COOKS MEETING
RULES
EQUIPMENT
CABELL COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT
PRIZES
LODGING
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- What are the dates and hours of the festival?
Chilifest is September 27, 2025. Please check back in fall 2025 for event schedule information.
- How can I purchase tickets?
Chili sample tickets are sold for $1 each, and are available at the event along with RAV4 raffle tickets. Tickets can also be purchased online at Ronald McDonald House and picked up prior to the event.
- Where do I buy sample tickets?
Chili sample and RAV4 raffle tickets are available online and can be picked up at the Ronald McDonald House of Huntington. You can also purchase sample and raffle tickets at multiple tents throughout Chilifest on the day of the event.
- What types of activities and entertainment are available at the festival?
Our schedule of events is updated yearly and includes a list of Chilifest events, performances, and activities.
- Is there parking available?
Parking is available in Pullman Square and parking meters throughout the downtown area.
- Can I be a judge?
Click here for details.
- Are there any age restrictions or requirements for attending?
There are no age restrictions for attendees, this is a family-friendly event.
- Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you can but don’t forget we have chili and drink stations.
- Are there accommodations nearby for overnight stays?
Information about nearby hotels can be found here.
- Where is the festival located?
Downtown Huntington, WV. The streets are closed on 3rd Avenue, from 8th Street to 10th Street for the festival.
- Can I register to compete the same day of the event?
Yes. However, we strongly suggest registering prior to event day as there is limited tent space. Same-day registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Can I bring my pet to the festival?
Yes, pets are allowed. Your furry friend must be kept on a leash at all times. Owners are usually responsible for cleaning up after their pets and properly disposing of any waste in designated receptacles.