Congratulations Winners!

The 26th Annual Chili Cook-Off 

Saturday, March 2nd 

from 12:00-4:00-pm.

The 26th annual Downtown Ithaca Chili Cook-Off is back! 

Indulge in mouthwatering chili offerings from over 40 restaurants, complemented by an array of delightful drinks and chili-inspired snacks from regional craft breweries, local cideries, wineries, and beloved local establishments. 


Chili enthusiasts will be competing for the titles of Best Meat Chili, Best Vegetarian Chili, or Vegan Chili, and the coveted People's Choice for the Best Chili in all of Ithaca, NY! 


Embrace the winter chill with friends and family as you savor warm bowls of chili at this cherished annual tradition in upstate New York!

The Space Chili Challenge is back!!

🌶️ Welcome to the ultimate showdown in the cosmos – the Space Chili Challenge! Brace yourselves as you embark on an exhilarating adventure where your skills will be put to the test against the relentless invasion of the fiery Space Chili. 🚀🔥

But that's not all – by participating and submitting your scores, you'll not only be vying for glory but also unlocking the chance to win exclusive prizes! From free tickets to the Chili Cook-Off to coveted event swag, the rewards are as enticing as the competition itself.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the heart of the action and embark on an epic journey filled with excitement, thrills, and, of course, plenty of spicy surprises! Click the link on the left to begin your adventure in the Space Chili Challenge now! 🌌🥣🏆

On Street Parking

On-street parking is $1.50/hour during the week until 6pm.  Free on the weekends.  Pay for parking using the Paystation Kiosks on each block, or using the Park Mobile App.

Garage Parking

Visitors can park in the Seneca and Cayuga garages and walk to any part of the festival. 

Ride the Bus

Avoid the hassle of parking altogether and ride TCAT to Downtown.  Both Green Street and Seneca Street bus stations are part of most major routes. 


Find a complete list of  TCAT bus routes and schedules here.

Bike to the Festival

Ride a bike to the festival and park at any of the art bike racks around downtown.  Please be sure to dismount and walk your bike while on the Ithaca Commons and within the festival footprint. 


Map your bike route to Downtown with Bike Walk Tompkins too.

www.DowntownIthaca.com