The annual O’Leno Ole Chili Cookoff and Springs Celebration is returning for a 14th year on April 8.
The event will feature a chili cookoff, live music from the Weeds of Eden, a guided walk along the river trail, children’s activities, art vendors, and environmental exhibits, according to a press release.
Hosted by the Alachua County Environmental Protection Department and Florida State Parks at O’Leno State Park (410 SE O’Leno Park Road), check-in and open registration begin at 8 a.m. and the chili competition begins at 9 a.m. The Springs Celebration begins at 11 a.m. with the chili tasting to follow at 12:30 p.m.
Chili-tasting kits will be on sale for $7 and visitors can vote on their favorites. The proceeds will go to the Friends of O’Leno non-profit organization supporting the state park.
Attendees are encouraged to enter the chili competition. Trophies and cash prizes will be awarded for a meat category, vegetarian category and the people’s choice award. It is $20 for the first entry and $15 for each additional entry. Contestants must be 18 years or older to participate in the competition. To pre-register, contestants must fill out the registration form.
All chili must be prepared on-site, so contestants must bring everything needed to prepare their chili. Download a basic set of instructions here.
Admission to O’Leno State Park will be waived with the donation of a canned good (no expired cans).