The 10th Ada Chili and Beer Festival first blipped onto my radar around Thanksgiving, boasting the bold claim of being “The Largest Chili/Beer Event in the Country!” With proceeds going to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of West Michigan and other local causes, it sounded like a perfect blend of indulgence and altruism.
A Spicy Day Out: The 10th Ada Chili and Beer Festival
Truth be told, I had confused Ada, Michigan, with Ida, Michigan, and thought it was just a hop, skip, and jump from our house. Ada is not right around the corner from our home, but I was still up for the drive. But hey, the longer drive gave me an excuse to skip exercising for the day (a “zero” day, as they say). We had to hit the road early—by 9 AM to make it in time for the festival’s 11 AM kickoff.
A Festive Arrival: Santa, Marching Bands, and Muffin Tins?
When we rolled into Ada, we were greeted by a delightful slice of small-town Americana: floats, a marching band, strollers everywhere, and families armed with… muffin tins? The festive chaos made for a curious sight. Soon, everything clicked—the Santa Parade, which kicked off at 10 AM, was ushering in the holiday season with gusto. But the muffin tins? Those remained a mystery.
The Ada Chili and Beer Festival itself was free to attend, but tasting tickets were your pass to chili and beer:
- 6 Taste Tickets: $15
- 12 Taste Tickets: $25
Ticket prices were reasonable, but the muffin tin envy was real. These clever attendees used them to juggle multiple steaming cups of chili—a genius hack I wish I’d known about. Lacking such foresight, I carefully balanced my 3-ounce bowls of chili in gloved hands, spilling only a little (a minor miracle, considering).
Chili Galore: A Feast of Flavors
What surprised me most was the variety. Every chili I sampled had its own distinct personality—from rich and smoky to tangy and spicy. Based on my unofficial count using the program guide, there were 32 contestants evenly split between professional (14 entries) and open (18 entries) categories. The competition was fierce.
Past festivals have drawn over 5,000 attendees, and judging by the lively crowds, this year seemed just as popular. The smell of simmering chili, the laughter of festival-goers, and the buzz of Michigan craft beer made for an irresistible atmosphere.
The Results Are In Who Took Home the Glory?
After sampling my way through as much chili as my taste buds could handle, I cast my ballot. Later (after a bit of Facebook sleuthing), I found official results to see who claimed top honors:
Judge’s Vote – Open Division
- 4th: (411)St. Roberts
- 3rd: (508) Byker Bros.
- 2nd: (401) Buffalo Chicken Thornapple Cascaras
- 1st: (110) Lucky 7s
Judge’s Vote – Professional Division
- 4th: (410) Thornapple Brewing Company
- 3rd: 102 Gravel Bottom Craft Brewery
- 2nd: (101) John’s No Bean Chili Soup, Bobbie Sue’s Roadhouse
- 1st: (405) Perrin Brewing Company
While the judges were spot-on with their picks—Lucky 7s and Perrin’s chili were standout winners—I had a couple of personal favorites. Delicious Dave’s in the open category and Mudpenny in the professional division stole my heart (and taste buds).
Wrapping Up: A Day Well Spent
For those who needed a palate cleanser from the spicier chilis, Michigan craft beers were on hand in 3-ounce pours—perfectly portioned to cool your tongue.
From the creative chilis to the warm, welcoming community vibe, the Ada Chili and Beer Festival proved well worth the drive. Next year, I’m bringing my own muffin tin—and maybe a bib.
More 2024 Ada Chili and Beer Festival photos are in our gallery.
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