By RYAN SKAITH
The 40th Annual Heart of America Chili Challenge is returning to the St. Joseph Civic Arena this Sunday, March 1 to benefit United Cerebral Palsy (UCP).
The milestone event promises a flavor-packed day for the whole family, featuring sixty professional and amateur cooks battling for the prestigious title of Missouri State Chili Champion.
UCP Director, Teresa Gagliano, says, “We serve children and adults with developmental disabilities. This is our only special event of the year.”
The festivities kick off when doors open at 11:00 a.m. Guests can enjoy live music from The Michael Shaun Brown Band starting at noon, browse a diverse Vendor and Craft Fair, and place bids in a massive Silent Auction that runs until 3:30 p.m. The main event arrives at 2:00 p.m., when attendees can sample all 60 unique chili recipes for free. Gagliano says, “People can go booth to booth and try all the different chilis.”
Beyond the competition, this event serves a vital purpose. All proceeds benefit UCP, supporting children and adults with developmental disabilities throughout Northwest Missouri. Over the past 39 years, this challenge has raised more than $2.6 million for the cause, making this 40th anniversary a true community celebration.
- When: Sunday, March 1, 2026
- Where: St. Joseph Civic Arena
- Admission: $3 for adults | $1 for kids (10 & under)
- Contact: Call Teresa at UCP (816-364-3836) for more info
Gagliano says the goal is to raise $150,000 this at the chili challenge to help serve the greater St. Joseph area. UCP serves about 400 children and adults.
Don’t miss out on the fun, the flavor, and the chance to make a difference in Northwest Missouri.