What is the Exceptional Foundation?
The Exceptional Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization which provides social and recreational activities to mentally challenged individuals in the Greater Birmingham area.

Where is the Cook Off located?

The Chili Cook-Off is held in The Exceptional Foundation parking lot, which is shared with Homewood Park.

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How do I enter a team?
Teams are reserved on a first come, first serve basis beginning with corporate sponsors. Corporate sponsorships are available at various levels of contribution. Only corporate sponsors are permitted to advertise or distribute promotional items at the event. Teams not wishing to be an event sponsor can enter by selling (or purchasing) at least 50 tickets valued at $10 each. But don't stop at 50! A prize is awarded to the team selling the most tickets.

Where do I park?
Parking is available at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, Trinity Methodist Church, Dawson Memorial Church (parking lot and deck), Shades Cahaba Elementary, Soho Square, and along any street you can find! There will be golf carts running from Dawson to the front entrance of The Exceptional Foundation that you may hop on at anytime if you park at Dawson, Trinity, or nearby these locations.
More Parking Info Here

Where do I get tickets?
Tickets can be purchased on this site or at The Exceptional Foundation location prior to the event for $10 each. The day of the event, tickets can be bought at the entrance for $15. Children 12 and under are FREE.

How are winners selected?
Winners of the Grand Prize, 1st Runner Up, and 2nd Runner Up are selected by a panel of judges. The People's Choice Award is given to the team who gets the most votes by patrons at the event. The Spirit Award is given to the team with best tent decoration, costume, etc., and is voted on by the judges and Exceptional Foundation participants. The Fundraising Award goes to the team who sells the most tickets to the event for The Exceptional Foundation.

How do I vote?
Tear off the ballot from the bottom of your ticket, and place your vote in your favorite team’s People’s Choice Award voting jar at their booth. Votes must be placed by 2 p.m. For patrons who purchase advance tickets online, a voting ballot will be provided when your tickets are redeemed at the entrance.

How are judges selected?
Judges are selected at random, but include local chefs, food editors, local celebrities, and just regular Joes.

What if it rains?
It's still on.

What are the prizes?
Prizes vary from year to year, but include beach trips, hunting trips, tickets to sporting events, and gift certificates to local restaurants and businesses.

Can I bring my kids? What about pets?
The Chili Cook-Off is very family friendly, so kids are welcomed. We have a moonwalk for their entertainment. Pets are not encouraged.

What forms of payment are accepted?
Cash and checks are accepted at the entrances for tickets ($15) and for t-shirts ($15). For beer ($3), cokes & water ($1), we accept cash only. There will be an ATM located at the front entrance on the corner of Oxmoor Road and the entrance to The Exceptional Foundation for your convenience.

Can I bring a cooler with refreshments?
No coolers are allowed. Patrons may purchase food and drinks inside the gate.