Jo's 19th Annual Chili Cook-Off

Hop on over to South Congress for Jo’s 19th Annual Chili Cook-Off, a spicy neighborhood tradition that turns the Hotel San José and Jo’s Coffee parking lot into a full-on fiesta of flavor.

Since 2005, this chili throwdown has been warming up Austin winters while raising funds for the local organization Free Lunch and their mission to fight food insecurity. Expect plenty of chili-themed fun, a friendly crowd, and that classic laid-back SoCo energy.

• Chili competition: Home cooks and pros go head-to-head with their signature recipes in the main cook-off and a fast-paced Quickfire Competition. If you’ve ever claimed your chili could win awards, this is where you prove it.

• Live music: Enjoy sets from Jeff Hughes & Chaparral and the always-groovy Jo’s House Band, providing the perfect soundtrack while you wander, sample, and vote.

• Tasting wristbands: Grab a wristband on-site for a chili crawl through the competitors’ tents. Your wristband scores you samples plus one all-important vote to crown your favorite batch.

• Raffle & prizes: Between bites, join in on raffle fun for a chance at goodies and local treats, all while supporting a good cause.

• Community vibes: This event is as much about gathering the neighborhood as it is about the chili—expect families, regulars, music lovers, and die-hard chili fans all rubbing elbows in the parking lot.

• Competitor sign-up: Entry to compete is free, and spots go to those who register early. If you’re dreaming of bragging rights and a packed crowd tasting your creation, keep an eye on Jo’s info channels each year for the sign-up window.

Whether you’re there to taste every last sample, cheer on a friend’s secret recipe, or just soak up the live tunes with a cup of something warm in hand, Jo’s Chili Cook-Off serves up a perfect mix of comfort food, community spirit, and classic Austin weirdness—all in one cozy winter afternoon.