One of the perks of college life is that otherwise normal days often morph into holidays, and at Cornell, this phenomenon is especially true. The spring Wednesday after our last day of classes? That’s no normal Wednesday — it’s Slope Day. The men’s hockey game against Harvard? That’s no ordinary weekend match — it’s a rivalry weekend. And Homecoming is no normal day — it’s an all-day darty.
For my roommate and I, the first Saturday in March is more than just an ordinary Saturday — it’s the most important day of our school year: The Downtown Ithaca Chili Cook-Off (better known as the Ithaca Chili Fest).
Celebrating its 27th anniversary this year, Chili Fest brings warmth and community into the Ithaca Commons amidst the dreariest stretch of winter. Vendors as informal as the brothers of Cornell fraternities and as hardcore as downtown’s beloved Moosewood and Simeon’s serve alongside one another and compete for honors in categories like Best Meat Chili and Best Vegetarian/Vegan Chili. Those coveted prizes are voted on by a panel of chili connoisseur judges (a role I am admittedly jealous of), while the highest honor, People’s Choice, is voted on by everyday chili enjoyers like you and me, who purchase reasonably priced sampling tickets.
This year, 43 vendors lined the Commons and neighboring streets to serve their best takes on the ultimate comfort food.
Although my roommate and I think long and hard about each chili we sample and take pride in casting our vote for People’s Choice, the chili itself isn’t the best part of our day.
Especially during Ithaca’s long winter, it’s important to prioritize opportunities that allow us to take a mental and physical break from the hustle and bustle of Cornell. In my opinion, it is equally important to prioritize immersing yourself in the broader Ithaca community — something Cornell students often overlook. Chili Fest is a perfect fusion of the two.
This tradition pulls us off the Hill and into the Commons, where we get to enjoy conversation and food with fellow classmates, professors and friends. We don’t talk about class, prelims, networking or jobs; Instead, we enjoy each other's company and appreciate the city we live in.
In the throes of a busy semester, when living with someone doesn’t necessarily mean you get to see them every day, Chili Fest has become a guaranteed afternoon that I get to spend with my roommate, and I’m thankful for that, too.
Regardless of what weather Ithaca hands us (my roommate and I have Chili Fested through wind, rain, sleet and snow), it is a Saturday we look forward to and cherish. Standing proudly alongside Apple Fest and Ithaca Fest, Chili Fest deserves a spot on the top of every Cornellian’s bucket list. So, grab a reusable mug, mark your calendar for 2026 and get ready to spice up your winter — Ithaca style. Happy Chili Fest!
Grace Elmore is a senior in the College of Arts & Sciences who writes her fortnightly column for Sex on Thursdays called Let’s Talk About Sex. Comments can be sent to gelmore@cornellsun.com.
