The Great Chili Challenge New Iberia, La Held annually, 1st Saturday of November

If you think great chili comes from Texas, think again! Louisiana has a rich Hispanic heritage that undoubtedly contributed to our love of spicy food – and a bowl of chili is as good a vehicle for the delivery of flavorful heat as any.

Entries to New Iberia’s Great Chili Challenge are judged in three categories: Family-Style (read: mild), Heart Healthy, and Hold on to Your Hat! And if that last category isn’t hot enough for you, add some TABASCO® Sauce to kick it up a notch.

As Louisiana festivals go, the annual Great Chili Challenge is a fairly brief affair, running from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. the first Saturday of November each year. Families enjoy live music in New Iberia’s City Park, as children play in three different inflatable playgrounds. You’ll also find a host of games and concessions.

But the star of the show is the amazing range of chili recipes. Each year, dozens of entrants vie for the Silver Bowl trophy that goes to the maker of the chili judged Grand Champion across the three categories.

And perhaps the best part of the challenge is enjoyed by the event’s attendees – each of the cook-off entries is available for purchase in tasting portions. So you can sample a variety and be a judge yourself, literally, as the “Tasters’ Choice” award is one of the event’s most coveted.

For more information, visit www.lafayettetravel.com.