In Kirkwood, Thanksgiving has always come with a few traditions: family, football, too much food—and, for generations of families, the Turkey Day game.
But the night before the big game, there’s another tradition warming up the town.
The Chili Bowl.
For 30 years, the night before Thanksgiving has brought Kirkwood families, friends, local restaurants and a whole lot of chili together at Kirkwood High School. What started three decades ago has become one of those traditions that feels less like an event and more like something Kirkwood simply does.
And while the chili may be the star of the evening, the reason behind the event is even more meaningful. The Chili Bowl is a fundraiser for the Kirkwood School District Foundation, whose mission is to support all Kirkwood School District students—from pre-kindergarten through high school. That means every bowl served, every restaurant that participates and every family that comes through the doors helps invest in the students and schools that are such an important part of this community.
The recipe is pretty simple: Local restaurants make the chili. Families and friends show up hungry. The high school becomes the gathering place. And for one evening, everyone has a reason to linger a little longer.
There are serious chili enthusiasts, of course—the people who sample every pot like they’re judging the World Chili Championship. There are those who arrive with a strategy. And then there are the rest of us, who happily eat whatever is handed to us and declare, “This one is my favorite,” approximately six times.
And then there’s the Turkey Day game waiting on the other side of Thanksgiving morning, another Kirkwood tradition that connects generations and reminds us how much this community loves its rituals.
So before the turkey hits the table, before the rivalry takes the field and before everyone settles in for Thanksgiving, there’s one more important thing to do- Grab a bowl. And maybe save room for ice cream.
Buy your tickets early to receive a discount; the ticket price will increase on 11/11.
Adult - $15 ($20)
Kids under 12 - $7 ($10)
Kids 2 and under - FREE
- Date: Wednesday, November 25, 2026
- Time: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
- Location: Kirkwood High School Cafeteria
- What to Expect: Chili samples from local restaurants, hot dogs, chips, drinks, ice cream, raffle and a vote for the favorite chili.
- Tickets: Purchase online at 30th Annual Chili Bowl Tickets, no cash sales at the door.