Chili, Cars & Community: The 15th Annual Amado Chili Cook-Off (Aired 02/26/2026)

🌶️ 15th Annual Amado Chili Cook-Off & Classic Car Show – March 7th! 🚗🎶Andy sits down with Ed Dunin-Wasowicz of D/M McGarrity Inc. and Amy Bass, Executive Director of the Amado Youth Center, to talk about one of Southern Arizona’s most anticipated community events — the 15th Annual Amado Chili Cook-Off and Randy & Rose Estes Classic Car and Motorcycle Show, happening Saturday, March 7th from 9 AM to 3 PM at I-19 Exit 48 in Amado.This year’s event features 10 chili cooks (including student culinary talent from Sahuarita High School), with tasting from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM — and new online ticket sales to make things faster and easier. Guests can enjoy unlimited tastings with a $10 hand stamp while supplies last. Parking is just $5 or five cans of food to benefit the cause.Beyond the chili, the day includes a massive vendor fair with 50+ vendors, a classic car and motorcycle show expected to feature up to 100 vehicles, and a full lineup of live entertainment including Diego Ochoa, The Gutter Town, Tonight’s Sunshine, and Chalako All-Star Ensemble. There’s also a youth-led 50/50 raffle and a silent auction featuring artwork from renowned regional artists — all supporting the Amado Youth Center.Most importantly, this annual event serves as the primary fundraiser for the Amado Youth Center, helping provide after-school programs, career mentoring, life skills training, and expanded opportunities for local youth. Even if you can’t attend, you can purchase tickets or make a tax-deductible donation online.Learn more or buy tickets at AmadoChiliCookOff.orgCome for the chili. Stay for the music, cars, and community spirit — and help make a difference in the lives of Southern Arizona youth.