MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. [Sept. 5, 2024] — Now in its fourth year, the Beach ’n Chili Fest is set to spice up Myrtle Beach once again from September 27-29, 2024, at Burroughs & Chapin Pavilion Place. This year, event organizers are proud to say the festival will be even bigger and better than before.
“This year’s Beach ‘n Chili Fest’ will offer more entertainment and activities, more competitors and of course, more flavorful chili,” said Mike McCloud, organizer for the Beach 'n Chili Fest and President of the International Chili Society (ICS). “The support from the Myrtle Beach community has been incredible, and we’re excited to bring an even more engaging atmosphere this year.”
The centerpiece of the festival is the World Championship Chili Cook-off competition presented by Bush’s®, where close to 300 professional chili teams will battle it out for the coveted title and their share of a $75,000 prize purse. Attendees will also have a chance to influence the competition by voting for the People’s Choice winner.
Beyond the cook-off, the festival offers a wide range of attractions, including food trucks, live music, retail vendors, Goldfish® Family Fun Zone , car shows, a cornhole tournament and more. While admission is free, visitors can enhance their experience by purchasing access to the VIP lounge and exclusive tasting opportunities.
The festival also includes several opportunities for community groups to be a part of the action. The event kicks off on Friday with the Community Chili Challenge, where local organizations compete to receive cash donations for their chosen charities – top prize is $2,500 – and every team is guaranteed to leave with money for their charity.
New this year, the Support Our Schools Challenge on Saturday will feature local schools showing off their best chili. The first-place school receives a grand prize up to $2,000 and every school is guaranteed at least $250.
The festival wraps up on Sunday with a spirited Battle of the Bands competition featuring local school bands. The winning band could receive up to $2,000 and all schools will receive a donation.
Also new is the daily “chili style” Happy Hour where attendees can get a free chili dog between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. each day while supply last.
For a full schedule of events and more information on the Beach ‘n Chili Fest, visit www.eatgreatchili.com.