The Ancient City Chili Classic

A Little Spice. A Little Smoke. A Lot of Fun.

There’s something about a bowl of chili that just feels like home. It’s the kind of food that warms you from the inside out, brings people around the table, and somehow makes a cold day feel a whole lot better.

On December 13th, we’re bringing that feeling to The Carriage House in St. Augustine for an afternoon of good food, good drinks, good music, and a little friendly competition.

Gather around steaming bowls of chili as local restaurants compete for the title of Best Chili in Northeast Florida, with the winning restaurant earning recognition and a feature in a local publication. And because everybody has a family chili recipe they swear is the best, we’re giving home cooks their moment, too. Amateur competitors will battle for the title of Best Home-Cooked Chili in Northeast Florida, with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes up for grabs.

But this isn’t just about chili.

McKarl’s will be keeping the drinks cold and the food flowing, with beer, whiskey, and delicious bites designed to complement all those smoky, spicy, savory samples. Around the grounds, you’ll discover a thoughtfully curated collection of woodworkers, leather artisans, jewelry makers, hot sauce and spice creators, cocktail craftsmen, bakeries, and other makers who fit the rustic, culinary spirit of the day.

Settle in with live bluegrass music playing throughout the afternoon. Watch a skilled cigar roller at work. Sip something cold. Sample something spicy. Browse something handmade. And, of course, vote for your favorite chili in the People’s Choice Award.

At the end of the day, the crowd will have its say — and a panel of professional judges will crown the Best of Show winners.

All of it takes place at The Carriage House, where rustic charm, warm wood, open-air gathering spaces, and a little bit of St. Augustine magic create the perfect backdrop for a cozy afternoon around the table.

So bring your appetite. Bring your friends. Bring your competitive chili opinions.

Pull up a chair. There’s plenty to go around.

This is a limited ticket event, and tickets are expected to sell out. If you want to be part of St. Augustine’s inaugural Ancient City Chili Classic, secure your tickets today before they’re gone.

A little something to know before you join us:

This is an adult-oriented culinary experience, filled with chili, cold drinks, whiskey, bluegrass, and artisan makers. Families are welcome to attend, but please keep in mind that there will not be dedicated children’s activities or entertainment.

And as much as we adore our furry companions, the Chili Classic is a pet-free event, so they’ll need to sit this one out.