Description
Are you ready to throw down? The VisArts Chili Throwdown presented by TowneBank is back for its 12th year on Friday, October 2, 2026 from 5:30 – 8pm.
Join us at the Visual Arts Center of Richmond's beloved community fundraiser to pick a handmade bowl, sample Richmond's best chili, enjoy local brews, and listen to live music in VisArts’ backyard. Every year, participating restaurants from across the city contribute their best chili and go head-to-head in a blind taste-test. After sampling chili at every tent, VisArts presents awards to two restaurants: a Critics' Choice Award, selected by the judges, and a People's Choice Award, selected by you!
The best part? All proceeds benefit VisArts’ operations and programs.
TICKETS
General public: $35
VisArts members: $30 with your member discount code
Active members received an email with a unique code at 9am on Wed, Sep 2. Need help claiming your discount? Contact the membership team at membership@visarts.org.
Not a member yet? Join today →
Youth: Kids under the age of 12 eat for $5 and kids under 3 eat for free with the required ticket reservation.
Adult admission (both general + VisArts member tickets) includes:
☑️ a sample of chili from each restaurant
☑️ a handmade ceramic bowl made by a VisArts clay artist
☑️ one free beer or glass of wine
Please note:
Additional ceramic bowls are available for purchase, though some limitations apply.
Youth tickets do not come with a ceramic bowl.
The event is rain or shine, and tickets are non-transferrable and non-refundable.
Tickets sell out every year! Purchase yours today.
PARKING
Event parking is available at Dogwood Middle School. The event is both indoors and outdoors. The event is accessible to individuals using mobility aids.
QUESTIONS?
Contact the special events team at events@visarts.org.
Date & Time
Fri, Oct 2, 2026 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Venue Details
Visual Arts Center of Richmond
1812 West Main StreetRichmond, Virginia 23220
