OXFORD, AL — The Calhoun County Blue Line Foundation is inviting the community to attend the 3rd Annual Battle of the Badges Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, Aug. 8, where local police and fire departments will compete for bragging rights while raising funds to support first responders.
The annual event features a friendly competition between law enforcement and fire agencies to determine which department prepares the top bowl of chili. Police departments have claimed the championship in each of the first two years, with the Anniston Police Department entering the 2026 event as the defending champion.
The cook-off will take place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Oxford Civic Center. Guests who purchase admission will have the opportunity to sample chili from each contestant and cast a ballot for the People’s Choice Award.
Advance admission is available for $8 per person, allowing attendees to save compared to purchasing tickets at the door.
In addition to the chili competition, the event will feature a Family Fun Zone and will be emceed by Oxford Police Chief Daniel Phipps.
The Calhoun County Blue Line Foundation also announced several businesses and organizations supporting this year’s event through sponsorships.
AmFirst Credit Union is serving as the Presenting Sponsor, while the Alabama Power Foundation has been named the Platinum Sponsor.
Additional sponsors include:
- Gold Sponsor: Oxford Walmart
- Silver Sponsors: AOD Federal Credit Union, Calhoun County Commission and Washin Coin Laundry
- Bronze Sponsors: Fort McClellan Credit Union, Emerald Federal Credit Union and Punishers L.E.M.C. Cheaha Chapter
Foundation officials encouraged residents to support the organizations that help make community events and first responder initiatives possible.
Those interested in attending can purchase advance tickets, register to compete, or learn more about the event by visiting https://ccblueline.org/battle-of-the-badges-chili-challenge/.
The 3rd Annual Battle of the Badges Chili Cook-Off will be held Saturday, Aug. 8, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Oxford Civic Center. Advance tickets are $8 and include chili samples from each contestant and the opportunity to vote for the People’s Choice Award.
