2026 Root Beer Kids Fest & Chili cook-off
Saturday, March 14, 2026
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Centennial Plaza, Gulfport MS
A family-friendly morning of kids' competitions, root beer & other treats, food and community fun benefiting Mississippi Heroes & the 1st Responders Grant Program. Bacon Bit pig race to commence at 11 am - get your piggy racer below.
EVENT OVERVIEW
Family Fun Supporting a Great Cause
Root Beer Kids Fest & Chili Cook-off is a wholesome, family-friendly event featuring kids' cooking competitions, root beer & chili tastings, games, and activities - all while supporting Mississippi Heroes' mission to build wheelchair ramps and celebrate caregivers.
Perfect for families with children of all ages!
schedule
SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
10:00-11:00 AM
- Gates open and vendor setup
- Root beer tasting stations
- Kids' activity zones
- Local nonprofit booths
11:00 AM-12:30 PM
- Kids Jr. Food Championship Competition
- First Responders Chili Cook-Off
- Live entertainment and games
- Bacon Bit Pig Race
12:30-2:00 PM
- Kids' Talent Competition
- Award presentations
- Golden Ticket ceremony
- Community celebration
FEATURED EVENTS
- Kids Cooking Championship: Young chefs ages 8-17 compete for title of Top Jr Chef with introduction to the World Food Championships! Watch future culinary stars showcase their skills.
- First Responders Chili Cook-Off: Our community heroes (firefighters, police, EMTs) compete in a friendly chili showdown with the community. All are invited to compete for best Chili. Community voting determines winners!
- Root Beer Tastings: Sample different root beer varieties and root beer floats. Kids and adults both love this classic treat! Other food and dessert tastings will be available.
- Bacon Bit Pig Race: Adorable pig racing with family-friendly fun and photo opportunities! Starts at 11 AM at the Lazy River.
- Kids' Activities Games, face painting, crafts, and activities throughout the grounds. Vendor list to come.
