The Texarkana Area Veterans Council is inviting the community to come hungry this Friday for one of its most popular fundraisers of the year, the 27th Annual Veterans’ Benefit Chili Cook-Off, along with the 2nd Annual Gumbo Cook-Off.

The lunchtime event is set for Friday, February 13, from 11 AM to 1 PM at the American Legion Post, located at 525 East Broad Street in Texarkana, Arkansas.

A Lunchtime Taste Tour for a Great Cause

Attendees can sample a wide variety of chili recipes, ranging from mild and traditional to bold, spicy, and downright creative. The gumbo competition adds a Cajun twist, featuring rich, homemade recipes prepared by local cooks.

Guests are encouraged to taste as many entries as they like and vote for their favorites, adding a little friendly competition to the mix.

Supporting Texarkana-Area Veterans

Admission is $8, which includes unlimited tastings of both chili and gumbo, along with eligibility for door prizes. All proceeds benefit the Texarkana Area Veterans Council.

Funds raised from the event help support local veterans and contribute to the council’s ongoing effort to purchase a van used to transport veterans to the Overton Brooks VA Medical Center when needed.

READ MORE: 101 Arrested Last Week in Bowie County - That's a Lot!

Event Details at a Glance

  • What: Veterans’ Benefit Chili & Gumbo Cook-Off
  • When: Friday, February 13 | 11 AM – 1 PM
  • Where: American Legion Post, 525 East Broad St., Texarkana, AR
  • Cost: $8 admission

For more information, call (903) 556-1613 or email USMCgreg@aol.com

Kicker 102.5 logo
Get our free mobile app

Texarkana Mardi Gras 2026

Mardi Gras Texarkana was held on Feb. 7 in downtown Texarkana, as a large crowd gathered on the streets for a festive parade and celebration.

Gallery Credit: Mario Garcia, Townsquare Media

New Jaggers Restaurant Texarkana 2026

Get a glimpse inside Jaggers Restaurant before its Grand Opening in Texarkana, Texas, on Feb. 18, 2026

Gallery Credit: Mario Garcia, Townsquare Media

Garvin Woodland Gardens - Hot Springs, Arkansas

Gallery Credit: Jim Weaver

More From Kicker 102.5