The Rudder’s 6th Annual Chili Cookoff Is Back

The Rudder’s 6th Annual Chili Cookoff Is Back — and It’s for a Great Cause 🌶️🐾

Mark your calendars for Sunday, February 15, 2026, because one of Old Hickory Lake’s most beloved winter traditions is back. The Rudder at Anchor High Marina is hosting its 6th Annual Chili Cookoff, and this year promises plenty of flavor, fun, and heart.

Guests will enjoy all-you-can-eat chili from a lineup of talented local cooks, each bringing their best recipe to the table. Whether you like your chili smoky, spicy, or packed with toppings, there’s something for everyone to love.

To turn up the heat even more, the event will also feature a Bloody Mary competition, proudly showcasing Tito’s Handmade Vodka. Your $20 ticket includes chili tastings a

nd bottomless Bloody Marys, making it the perfect way to spend a winter Sunday with friends.

Best of all, this event gives back. Proceeds from the Chili Cookoff benefit the Humane Society of Sumner County, helping support animals in need right here in our community. Good food, great drinks, and an even better cause — it doesn’t get much better than that.

If you’re interested in entering the chili competition, we’d love to have you. To sign up or request more information, email jsharp@therudderahm.com.

Come hungry, come thirsty, and come ready to support a cause that matters. We can’t wait to see you at The Rudder’s 6th Annual Chili Cookoff!