Wild, Wild Westfield Premier Chili Cook-Off winner is hot!

Derric McFarland (center) won first place in the Premier Chili Cook-Off Contest. He is shown here with People’s Choice Award Winner Dave Mueller (left) and CrossRoads Lead Pastor Eric Lohe (right). (Photo provided by CrossRoads Church at Westfield)

Who makes the best chili in Hamilton County? This past Saturday at Wild, Wild Westfield’s Premier Chili Cook-Off and Fall Fest, Derric McFarland won first place with his “secret ingredient.”

Local judges determined the top three best chili entrees from among over 40 entrees. Cash prizes were awarded of $250 for first, $150 for second, $100 for third plus there was a “People’s Choice” award won by Westfield’s own Dave Mueller.

Photo provided by CrossRoads Church at Westfield

The Premier Chili Cook-Off is part of CrossRoad’s Church at Westfield’s family-friendly annual Fall Fest held on the last Saturday of September each year. This FREE family-friendly event is for all who want to enjoy a fun and relaxing afternoon of games, food, and music. In addition to great chili, people enjoyed face painting, inflatables, pony rides, food, kids games, adult fun, petting zoo, silent auction, bounce houses, and live music. Of course, what would Wild, Wild Westfield be without Manny the Mechanical Bull?

Everyone loves Manny the Mechanical Bull! (Photo provided by CrossRoads Church at Westfield)

The Chili Cook-Off was held at 19201 Grassy Branch Road, Westfield, on the CrossRoads Church at Westfield’s campus. This big event is part of CrossRoads Church at Westfield’s four-part strategic plan to meet, enjoy, know, and serve local neighbors.

Photo provided by CrossRoads Church at Westfield

CrossRoads Church at Westfield’s next big free event is its annual Pizza and Punchlines – A Family Friendly Comedy Night on Saturday, March 1 at Westfield High School. Pizza will be served at 6 p.m. and the comedy starts at 7 p.m. More information is available online at ForOurNeighbor.Life.

Additionally, in June 2025, CrossRoads Church will provide free home repairs for Hamilton County families and veterans. Volunteers will provide mobile home skirting, decks, ramps, and interior and exterior painting to all who qualify. Please submit an application at this link.

Find out more about about the church online at ForOurNeighbor.Life or email ForOurNeighborInfo@gmail.com or at crchurch.org.

Photo provided by CrossRoads Church at Westfield