BY ROBIN MIMNA

Every February, the community of Enterprise proves that rules are overrated and chili is sacred.

At the 18th annual Enterprise Chili Cook-Off, hosted by the Enterprise Preservation Society, the only real rules were:

• Cook on-site.
• No electricity.
• Win over the crowd by any means necessary.

Beyond that? Anything goes. That’s exactly why this quirky little cook-off, set in one of Florida’s oldest communities, has become one of the most highly anticipated — albeit slightly lawless — events of the year.

Though Enterprise may have lost Volusia County’s seat back in 1888 (and yes, people are still sore about it), the town has never lost its identity. Nestled along Lake Monroe, this former steamboat hub takes pride in preserving its history and maintaining its traditions — even when those traditions include competitive chili-making and scaring Deltona off its borders.

Standing in front of their restored 1936 schoolhouse — renovated with ECHO grant funds — EPS Vice President, Doug de Leon proudly declared the event a success: “It’s a spectacular day — perfect weather, a fantastic turnout, and a wonderful time for the people of Enterprise.”

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More than just chili — a culinary free-for-all

Where else can you sample habanero cornbread, spicy brownies, rabbit chili, and a little moonshine (if you know whom to ask) — all in one place? In Enterprise, bribery isn’t just tolerated; it’s expected. One year, a contestant handed out free tequila shots to anyone who tried their chili. This year, the winning team, FuKing Chili, served up free hot dogs to go with their entry. But make no mistake — bribes alone won’t win the day if your chili doesn’t pack a punch.

For just $7 ($4 for kids), attendees got an all-access pass to a chili-fueled fever dream — a whirlwind of culture, music, creativity, vintage cars and culinary chaos. Where the Dixie Pride booth flies the Confederate flag beside At-A-Girl-Vegan Chili, who one year handed out cups with PETA stickers on them that read “Meat is Murder.” Where competitors bring games, prizes, petting zoos, and plenty of booze — whatever it takes to win over the crowd. 

It’s a sensory explosion of flavors, personalities and plenty of beer-fueled old-school Florida madness, but all for a good cause.

Former Volusia County Council member Pat Northey, who never misses the event, said, “This is a well-honored tradition that highlights a small community doing big things — particularly in preserving Old Volusia.”

Honoring those who keep Enterprise spicy

The 2025 Verna and Marvin Titus Award, presented to those who excel in serving the community of Enterprise, was awarded to Norma Adamczyk. An environmentalist dedicated to preserving Lake Monroe, Norma has spent decades taking water samples and leading cleanup efforts for the county.

True to her blunt style, Adamczyk kept it real during her acceptance speech: “Thank you for the award, but I’d rather you come help us clean up the roads.”

If you missed this year’s festivities, mark your calendars for 2026. Where else can you enjoy some of the best chili in Florida, live music and possibly get handed a shot of tequila with your tasting spoon?

The Enterprise Museum, located at 360 Main St. in Enterprise, Florida is open to the public Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Private tours can be arranged by calling the museum at 386-259-5900.

— Robin Mimna serves on the board for the Enterprise Preservation Society.