Beach 'n Chili Fest Returns to the Grand Strand

Building on the success of hosting the event for the past two years in Myrtle Beach –  America’s Favorite Family Beach Community –  the goal of the 2023 Beach ‘n Chili Fest is to draw over 50,000 attendees and be recognized as one of the premier food and fun festivals in the country.

“Myrtle Beach has proven to be a perfect host for our annual homecoming as chili heads around the nation convene to prepare and serve award-winning chili for three days,” said Mike McCloud, organizer for the Beach 'n Chili Fest and President of the International Chili Society (ICS). “From tourists to locals alike, championship chili is a huge fan favorite on the Grand Strand as Summer transitions into Fall. Thousands and thousands of people have come out to enjoy our tastings, family entertainment, live bands and eating contests. We are excited to announce that even more fun will be added to this year’s calendar of activities.”

The Beach 'n Chili Fest will feature three full days of entertainment, including antique car shows, live stage entertainment, recipe demonstrations, and of course, the world’s best chili as judged by professional chili heads from around the nation! In fact, hundreds of flavors will be available for sampling during the entire festival!

The WCCC, presented by Bush’s Beans, is the centerpiece of the Beach 'n Chili Fest. It is the culmination of a year-long chili cooking season. After winning local events all over America, more than 200 professional chili teams will descend upon Myrtle Beach as they try to be crowned the ultimate Chili Master for the 2023 season. The best part? Festival attendees get to help pick the winner through countless options and people’s choice programs!

This annual cook-off of champions was created by the International Chili Society (ICS), which was formed in 1967 by a group of like-minded friends in Texas. One of those friends was legendary race car driver and automotive designer, Carroll Shelby.

“The ICS and WCCC have a long and colorful history,” shared McCloud. “We want to honor that tradition of friendship, food and fun through the Beach 'n Chili Fest every year when we arrive in Myrtle Beach.”

According to event organizers, last year’s attendance topped 30,000, making it one of the top free-admission events along the Grand Strand. 

“We are thrilled to have the World Championship Chili Cook-off back again this year. The theme of Beach ’n Chili Fest is perfect, as Myrtle Beach allows locals and out-of-town guests the opportunity to beach with the best,” said Karen Riordan, President and CEO of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber and CVB.