Craft Beer & Chili Challenge in East Hartford, August 12

Chefs are always talking about wine pairings, but for all of you who prefer a cold one to a glass of vino, here's your chance for sample some of the best beer CT has to offer. The Craft Beer & Chili Challenge will be held at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, CT on Sunday, August 12th from 12-4 p.m.

What's better than 100's of beers & dozens of chilis? Really, nothing, but if you require added appeal, attendees will get to vote for their favorites as they crown the best official beers and chilies in Connecticut.

Chili will range from from hearty and meaty, to hot and spicy, to vegetarian, and everything in between, so there's something for every eater.

For one flat admission price of $62.50, attendees can sample dozens of different chilis prepared by area restaurants and hundreds of craft beers from around the state and around the world. In addition, there will be vendors and crafters from around the Northeast displaying and selling their work, as well as a DJ providing a rocking soundtrack of music for the event. 

Ticketholders will have head-spinning choices of craft beers to sample, including nut brown ales, blonde lagers, light pilsners, dark stouts and more from every corner of the world. Then, everyone votes for their favorite and Connecticut’s favorite beer and chili are crowned. Last year’s Craft Beer & Chili Challenge awarded Blue Point top honors, with Old Burnside and Overshores Brewing Co. coming in second and third. 

The chili available to taste will be just as interesting and varied. Whether you like your chili spicy, sweet or mild with beef, pork, beans or veggies, there is a delicious cup of chili to please everyone’s palate. Last year, the Yardhouse Tavern claimed the best chili in Connecticut award, with Jordan Caterers and Wood ‘n’ Tap of Southington following in second and third.  

Tickets are available for purchase online at beerandchili.org. General admission is $62.50 and includes beer and chili, as well as one voting ballot. 

This year, CPTV and WNPR are partnering with AmRide to offer the Safe Ride Home Program. Now everyone can enjoy the event worry free and let AmRide’s trustworthy professional drivers drive participants home in their own car. The cost of the service is $44.95, for up to 10 miles, regardless of the number of passengers or stops. Additional mileage is available for an extra fee. For more information and to reserve a safe ride home, go to beerandchili.org, or call AmRide at 855-426-7433.   

An alcohol-free Designated Driver ticket is also available. Priced at $46.50, this admission ticket includes chili samples plus one voting ballot. All attendees must be 21 years or older. 

The Important Details

CPTV and WNPR’s Craft Beer & Chili Challenge 

3rd Annual Event Crowns the Best Beer and Chili in Connecticut

Sunday, August 12 from 12 noon – 4 p.m.

Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Connecticut  

Tickets (prices include all fees): 

All-Inclusive General Admission: $62.50; Designated Driver (alcohol-free): $46.50  

More information at beerandchili.org

For more information on the event, contact Amy Williamson at awilliamson@cptv.org.

To purchase tickets to this event go to The CPTV and WNPR's Craft Beer & Chili Challenge web site. All attendees must be 21 years or older.