Join us for the Chili Champ Tailgating Annual Festival on January 10, 2026 at Koworx Venice.
On a cool January evening in Venice, Florida, something new is about to simmer to life — and it smells incredible.
The Chili Champ Tailgating Annual Festival is set to make its debut on Saturday, January 10, 2026, transforming The Yard at Koworx Coworking Space into a high-energy gathering of food lovers, local vendors, live music fans, and community supporters. From the first ladle poured to the final vote cast, this festival isn’t just about chili — it’s about connection, creativity, and kicking off a tradition Venice can call its own.
Produced by Venice Nights and GBack Media, and presented alongside Koworx, Venice Sign Shop, and Tri-Healthy, the Chili Champ Tailgating Festival blends competitive cooking with the relaxed, come-as-you-are vibe of a classic tailgate. It’s free to attend, family-friendly, and designed to bring the community together around great food and good energy.
From 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, guests can stroll through an outdoor market, enjoy live music, sample chili from passionate competitors, and help crown the People’s Champ — all while soaking in the kind of atmosphere that makes Venice special after dark.
Where Tailgating Meets Community Culture
Tailgating is more than a pre-game ritual — it’s a shared language. It’s about gathering around food, cheering each other on, and enjoying the moment without pretense. The Chili Champ Tailgating Annual Festival takes that spirit and gives it a Venice twist.
Set at Koworx, a space known for creativity, collaboration, and local innovation, the festival offers a perfect backdrop for something new. Tents, tables, crockpots, music, and laughter fill the space as competitors serve up their best recipes and attendees cast their votes.
Venice Nights has built its reputation on curating events that feel authentic, energetic, and rooted in the local scene. This festival continues that mission by spotlighting local cooks, small businesses, artisans, and makers — all while inviting the public to be part of the action rather than just spectators.
The Chili Champ Tailgating Annual Festival is coming to Koworx Venice on January 10, 2026.
Chili cook-off, live music, outdoor market, and local vendors — plus vendor spots now open!
The Chili Takes Center Stage
At the heart of the festival is the Chili Cook-Off — a friendly but competitive showdown open to professionals, amateurs, and kids (with adult supervision). From traditional recipes to bold freestyle creations and fiery spice-forward entries, the variety promises something for every palate.
Guests can sample different chilis throughout the evening and participate directly by voting in the People’s Champ category. Every taste, every vote, and every conversation adds to the excitement.
An Outdoor Market Built for Discovery
Beyond the chili, the festival features a curated outdoor market showcasing local vendors, handcrafted goods, and unique brands. It’s a chance to discover new favorites, support small businesses, and connect directly with the people behind the products.
Live Music and After-Dark Energy
No Venice Nights event is complete without music. Live performances keep the energy high as the sun sets, turning the cook-off into a full evening experience.
Built by Local Brands, Powered by Community
Presented by GBack Media, Venice Nights, Koworx Coworking Space, Venice Sign Shop, and Tri-Healthy, the festival reflects a shared commitment to community, creativity, and local culture.
On January 10, 2026, Venice isn’t just hosting a chili cook-off — it’s launching a tradition.
Discover more with Venice Nights and experience the best of Venice after dark.