Island firefighters host chili cook-off
The Sanibel Firefighters Benevolent Fund hosted its Sanibel Chili Challenge 2026 on April 11 at the Tahitian Gardens on Sanibel. The inaugural event entailed a family-friendly chili cook-off between 10 teams made up of local restaurants and one from the Sanibel Fire and Rescue District, along with live entertainment, raffles for donated items and more. American Legion Post 123 was named the Grand Champion by a panel of local judges, while attendees voted for the team of Sanibel firefighters for the People’s Choice Award. The benevolent fund congratulated all of the teams on the fierce competition and outstanding chili, and it extended a thank to everyone who came out to support the event. It added that it is already looking forward to next year’s cook-off. The proceeds will support the benevolent fund, which assists the island’s firefighters and their families, as well as help the Sanibel community.