Chili has been part of derby festivities from the start, and the annual Chili Cook-Off at Wauconda American Legion Post 911 (515 S. Main St.) has become a tradition of its own, complete with a hot dog bar, bucket raffles and live auction items, all benefiting the derby’s causes.
Recent champions
- 2025 Winner: Fox Lake Harbor
- 2024 Champion: Uncle D’s Bar & Grill
Past competitors have included Uncle D’s Bar & Grill, Veterans Path to Hope, Wauconda Police Department, Wauconda Fire Department, Fox Lake Harbor, Maiman’s BMG, Wauconda Chamber of Commerce, Wauconda Township, Wauconda Public Works, Lindy’s Landing and Wauconda Moose Lodge.
Date and details for the next Cook-Off will be announced ahead of the 2027 derby. Want to enter a pot? Contact us.