Hilton Head Island, August 21, 2025
News Summary
The 40th Annual Hilton Head Kiwanis Chili Cook Off & Jeep Island event is scheduled for October 11 at Lowcountry Celebration Park. With a cashless setup, attendees can enjoy chili from various cooks, including BBQ legend Orchid Paulmeier. Funds raised will benefit local youth charities, while families can engage in activities, including a dedicated Kids Zone and live music from RetroRoxx. Registration is open for those interested in participating as cooks or sponsors.
Hilton Head Island
The 40th Annual Hilton Head Kiwanis Chili Cook Off & Jeep Island is set to take place on Saturday, October 11, from Noon to 3 p.m. at Lowcountry Celebration Park, located at 94 Pope Avenue, Hilton Head Island. This year, the popular event has made a significant transition to being entirely cashless; all major debit and credit cards will be accepted for chili samples, food, beverages, and event merchandise.
A highlight of the cook-off is BBQ legend Orchid Paulmeier, known for her establishment, One Hot Mama’s, who will be one of the competitors. Orchid recently garnered attention by finishing in the Top 5 on the Food Network’s “BBQ Brawl,” adding an exciting dimension to the competition.
In addition to a variety of chili, attendees can enjoy a selection of adult beverages, soft drinks, and local craft brews sponsored by Local Legend Brewing Company. The event also serves a greater purpose, as it raises funds for several local youth charities, including the Island Rec Association and the Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island. The funds generated through the cook-off directly benefit these organizations, supporting community youth initiatives.
Chili cooks will enter the competition in one of three categories: Professional, Amateur, and People’s Choice. Each winner will receive a cash prize donation to their chosen local youth cause, promoting local engagement and giving back to the community.
The Jeep Island expo will also be a significant attraction at the event, featuring a stunning display of Jeeps from across the nation for enthusiasts to admire. In addition, local entertainment will be provided by RetroRoxx, an ‘80s party cover band that will perform live during the event, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Families are encouraged to attend as there will be a dedicated Kids Zone featuring bouncy houses and other activities aimed at keeping younger attendees entertained. The renowned Hilton Head Kiwanis Grill Team will serve their famous burgers and hot dogs, offering additional food options for all event-goers.
Those interested can still sign up to participate as chili cooks or as sponsors for the event. For more information and registration details, interested parties can visit www.hiltonheadkiwanis.com.
Event Summary
- Date: Saturday, October 11
- Time: Noon to 3 p.m.
- Location: Lowcountry Celebration Park, 94 Pope Avenue, Hilton Head Island
- Cashless Payments: All major debit and credit cards accepted
- Key Competitor: Orchid Paulmeier of One Hot Mama’s
- Beneficiary Charities: Island Rec Association, Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island
- Entertainment: Live music by RetroRoxx
- Kids Zone: Bouncy houses and activities
- Food Options: Burgers, hot dogs, and local craft brews
Event Registration
Individuals interested in competing as chili cooks or sponsoring the event can find all necessary information and register online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the date and time of the event?
The Chili Cook Off & Jeep Island event will be held on Saturday, October 11, from Noon to 3 p.m.
Where is the event taking place?
It will take place at Lowcountry Celebration Park, located at 94 Pope Avenue, Hilton Head Island.
Is the event cashless?
Yes, the event is entirely cashless, accepting all major debit and credit cards.
Who are some of the competitors?
One notable competitor is Orchid Paulmeier, the local BBQ legend from One Hot Mama’s.
What charities will benefit from the event?
Funds raised will support local youth charities, including the Island Rec Association and the Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island.
Will there be activities for children?
Yes, there will be a Kids Zone with activities such as bouncy houses.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Date | October 11 |
| Time | Noon to 3 p.m. |
| Location | Lowcountry Celebration Park |
| Cashless Payments | All major debit and credit cards accepted |
| Competitor | Orchid Paulmeier |
| Benefiting Charities | Island Rec Association, Boys & Girls Club |
| Kid-Friendly Activities | Bouncy houses in Kids Zone |
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HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Eat It and Like It: Hilton Head Island Chili Cook Off
- Legacy: Carol Lee Krill Mularz Obituary
- WSAV: Pandas Leave Georgia and Head to China
- Grand Strand Magazine: Lowcountry Paradise
- Wikipedia: Hilton Head Island
- Google Search: Hilton Head Chili Cook Off
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hilton Head Island
- Google News: Hilton Head Island
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
