How to Host a Chili Cook Off and S’mores Party
Fall is the perfect season for cozy gatherings and comfort food—and nothing brings people together quite like a Chili Cook Off and S’mores Party! Whether you’re celebrating Halloween, hosting a game day get together, or simply enjoying the crisp autumn air, this party idea is an easy and fun way to entertain a crowd.
What You Need for a Chili Cook-off and S’mores Party
Entertaining for fall or any occasion doesn’t have to be complicated or formal. With just a few thoughtful touches, you can create a welcoming, festive atmosphere.
Opt for a beautiful yet easy tablescape if you’re hosting a few people. Set a simple yet charming fall tablescape with seasonal touches like pumpkins, mini mums, and plaid napkins. As the host, provide the basics: a pot of chili, drinks, kids’ food, and s’mores ingredients. Then invite your guests to bring their own chili creations—this makes it fun and interactive! At our last party, we had five delicious chili entries, including a surprising crowd favorite: a sweet potato vegetarian chili.
For larger gatherings, buffet-style is the way to go. Set up a self-serve chili and drink station using festive paper goods and disposable flatware to keep clean-up easy. Stack crockpots on a sideboard or kitchen counter with printed name cards or fun chalkboard signs to label each chili.
Crowd Favorite Hearty Chili Recipe
Our go-to hearty chili is always a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s packed with sautéed vegetables and flavorful apple chicken sausage. Get the full Hearty Chili Recipe here! We also grilled hot dogs for the kids—easy, classic, and always a win!
Drink Recipe
Instead of fancy glassware, try serving a signature drink in plastic reusable cups, like these Happy Fall Y’all ones with our tasty Sparkling Apple Cider Rosemary Cocktail!
Guests also enjoyed our signature Apple Cider Moscow Mules in copper mugs and Cheers Y’all mason jars. We made enough for 10 people for the chili cook off and served it in a copper punch bowl so we didn’t have to keep playing bartender. You can get the recipe here.
S’mores Station
What’s fall without s’mores? A backyard fire pit makes the perfect setting for toasting marshmallows and relaxing after chili tasting.
Create a build-your-own s’mores station by arranging all the ingredients in cute baskets or a tiered serving tray. Elevate your s’mores game with fun options like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, caramel-filled chocolate squares, or cinnamon graham crackers.
Don’t Forget to Vote!
Before the night ends, be sure to have guests cast their vote for their favorite chili. Offer a small prize for the winning recipe—it’s a fun way to wrap up the evening and show appreciation for your guests’ efforts.
Vendor Credits
Design, planning, photography, chili, s’mores and floral arrangement – Sarah Sofia Productions
Personalized Mason Jars – Shutterfly
Gold Geometric Terrarium Candle Holders – Oriental Trading
Happy Fall Y’all cups and napkins – Swoozies
Bowls and copper mugs – Pottery Barn
Hello Fall plates, napkins and copper flatware – Target
