An Atlanta chili cook-off that started in a small office 20 years ago has raised nearly half a million dollars for children’s charities and shows no signs of slowing down.
Chili for the Children returns March 1 for its 20th anniversary event at Bar{n} at Dunwoody Village, where guests will sample competing chilis while raising money for Make-A-Wish Georgia. Founder Jany Brown said the 2-4 p.m. Sunday fundraiser has evolved from a grassroots gathering into what she calls “a lasting legacy of generosity and shared purpose.”
The milestone comes after the event has generated more than $450,000 for nonprofits focused on children’s health and education since 2005. Past beneficiaries include the Atlanta Community Food Bank, Ferst Readers, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and several literacy organizations.
This year’s proceeds will help grant wishes for children with critical illnesses, including 19-year-old Luke, who is battling leukemia and hopes to travel to Japan with his family.
“A wish can be a powerful source of hope for children and families navigating some of life’s toughest moments,” said Justice French, director of development for Make-A-Wish Georgia. The organization has granted nearly 10,000 wishes statewide since 1995.
How the contest works
The 2026 contest brings back past winners, each cooking for their own chosen charity. Guests taste the entries and vote for the People’s Choice award, with donations going to both Make-A-Wish Georgia and the winning team’s selected cause.
The event includes live music, raffles, and a silent auction. Organizers said they’re developing a trip prize but haven’t announced details yet.
Sponsors, including Rough Draft Atlanta, cover overhead costs, allowing 100% of ticket sales and donations to reach the nonprofits directly. Tickets cost $100 per pair.
Brown said the longevity surprises her. “Even at the 20-year mark, I’m still amazed that what started as a small office gathering has grown,” she said. “This milestone belongs to everyone who has shown up year after year to give back.”
More information is available at chiliforthechildren.com.