Members of the “Twisted Sisters” team serve their chili during the 2025 Chili Cook-Off at the Yuba City Moose Lodge. Teams compete for judges’ and crowd-favorite awards, while attendees sample chili and vote for their favorites during the fundraiser. Photos courtesy of the Yuba City Moose Lodge Chili Cook-Off

YUBA CITY, CA (MPG) - The Yuba City Moose Lodge will once again turn up the heat later this winter with its annual Chili Cook-Off, and organizers say enthusiasm is already running high, with all available team slots filling ahead of the event. The popular fundraiser brings together local teams, sponsors and community members in support of the Marysville Cancer Center.

The event is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 28, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Yuba City Moose Lodge, located at 205 S. Walton Ave. The cook-off is open to the public and will feature live music, raffles, door prizes, chili tasting and friendly competition, with proceeds supporting cancer-related services in the local community.

Organizers opened 12 team slots for this year’s competition, all of which have now been claimed. Teams were required to submit an entry form along with a $25 registration fee by Feb. 21. Each team is encouraged to bring at least five to six gallons of prepared chili and receives two complimentary entry tickets, while additional team members and guests may purchase tickets for $5 each. Ticket purchases also allow attendees to vote in the competition. Children 8 and under will be admitted free.

“We hope you would like to participate in this annual event benefiting the community,” wrote Chili Cook-Off Chairperson Tara Croghan in a letter to potential participants. “Registration is on a first-come basis, so be sure to register early.”

The cook-off will feature two main competition categories: Best Chili — Judges’ Favorite and Best Chili — Crowd Favorite. Cash prizes will be awarded in both categories, with $75 for first place, $50 for second place and $25 for third place. An additional $75 prize will be awarded for best decorated booth, encouraging teams to get creative with their setup.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the American Cancer Society and the Marysville Cancer Center. According to organizers, last year’s Chili Cook-Off raised more than $2,000 in support of the Marysville Cancer Center.

Those interested in becoming a sponsor or purchasing tickets can contact Croghan at 530-632-1460 or Peggy Ballasch at 530-671-1204 for more information.