If you’re looking for a fun activity to participate in this upcoming weekend, look no further than the Fayetteville downtown square! This Saturday on February 20th, the 11th annual Chilirhea will take place. The event, which started out in 2004 as a way for post-college friends to come together, has since grown into an annual event.
When it first began, fifteen friends gathered together in a backyard to eat chili. Since then, the event has steadily grown every year. By 2009, only five years after its founding, Chilirhea had gained multiple sponsors, 15 teams, and over 125 participants. In 2010, Chilirhea formally adopted Alzheimer’s research as a cause. The cause seemed fitting since founders of the event had family members affected by the disease.
Abby Mabe, a freshman at the University of Arkansas, is one of many that wanted to volunteer in order to make an impact. “I hope to make a difference in the cause by volunteering,” Mabe said. “I hope that my time can go to the efforts of benefiting Alzheimer’s research and awareness.”
Chilirhea is characterized by the tradition of a chili cook-off, with over 30 types of chili available, as well as a silent auction and live music throughout the day. Cory Scott, who founded Chilirhea in 2004, believes that while the chili tasting and the activities are an enjoyable part of the day, the main goal of the day is to benefit the cause. “Our main goal is to spread awareness of Alzheimer’s to those in our community that may be suffering from this disease directly or indirectly,” Scott said. “In order to accomplish this goal, we have created a fun filled atmosphere of friends, music and competitive chili cook-off.”
Every year, the goal for amount raised increases, and this year is no exception. “We always try and outdo our previous years’ giving to the beneficiaries,” Scott said. “We are aiming to raise $75,000 this year with the help of our sponsors, cooks and attendees. Our presenting sponsor, Atlas Technology Group of Rogers, has provided a great start in obtaining our 2016 goal.”
The two organizations Chilirhea partners with for the event are Alzheimer’s Arkansas and The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences’s Alzheimer’s disease center. Alzheimer’s Arkansas is an independent non-profit organization that provides support for families of those who are affected by Alzheimers and dementia. The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is one of only 29 Alzheimers disease centers in the country. Through their research, they work to help older adults affected by the disease and their caregivers by helping them to connect with practicing health-care professionals. They also support the development of better diagnostic and intervention strategies.
One unique factor about Chilirhea is the fact that it’s run completely on a volunteer basis. “Everyone on the Chilirhea board donates their times and efforts and no one takes a salary,” Scott said.
Mabe first became aware of the event through her sorority and knew she wanted to volunteer. “I first heard about Chilirhea through Alpha Delta Pi,” Mabe said. “I think the event is benefitting a great cause and will be a fun way to give back to my community.”
Those with a competitive side can register for the chili cook-off competition as well. Competitors must arrive by 9:00 to ensure the chili has time to cook and the chili prepared must be cooked at the event and not prior to it. In addition, the chili must be red chili, not white or Verdi, although any type of meat is acceptable. The first place winners will win a cash prize of $1,200, as well as a trophy while second place finishers will receive $700, and 3rd place will receive $300.
Scott encourages everyone to attend the upcoming event. “If you find yourself looking for a unique experience in Northwest Arkansas on February 20th, then we would love to have you join us at the Fayetteville Town Center. The theme is the Great Outdoors and what better way to celebrate a cold winter day with a warm bowl of chili in the heart of the Ozark Mountains.” For those interested in attending, general admission prices are $35.00 a person. The admission allows those attending to sample all of the different teams’ chili prior to the judging. Donations are also accepted for the event.
