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Chili Fest

Chili Fest

Event Details

Join us for a sizzling celebration of bold flavors and hearty chili creations! Whether you're a spice lover or just here for the cornbread, there's something for everyone. Come hungry. Leave happy. 

  • Thursday, October 8, 2026
  • 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM
  • Fresh at Carmichael Dining Center, 200 Packard Ave, Medford, MA (Uphill, off the residential quad)

Lunch Pricing

  • FREE for Tufts, Medford, and Somerville First Responders
  • All others: Special Discounted Lunch Door Price: $15

Want a taste of the fun?

Check out highlights from a past Chili Fest and see why it’s a campus favorite! Watch the Chili Fest Video

A Tradition of Gratitude Since 2002

What began as a simple gesture of appreciation has grown into one of Tufts Dining's longest-running traditions. 

Chili Fest was established in 2002 by members of the Tufts Dining team in the years following the September 11, 2001, attacks. The event was created as a way to recognize and thank the firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and public safety professionals who serve the Tufts community and the surrounding cities of Medford and Somerville. The original intent was to honor local heroes and create an opportunity for first responders and the campus community to connect outside of emergency situations. 

Originally known as the Station House Chili Fest, the event welcomed members of local fire departments to campus for a shared meal of homemade chili. Over the years, participation expanded to include police officers, emergency medical personnel, Tufts University Police, and other public safety partners. As the event grew to recognize a broader group of public safety professionals, it evolved into what is now known as the First Responders Chili Fest. 

Today, Chili Fest continues to celebrate the partnerships that help keep the Tufts community safe. What started as a small gathering focused on honoring firefighters has become a cherished annual tradition that brings together students, faculty, staff, first responders, and community partners over great food, gratitude, and meaningful connection. 

Historical Timeline 

2002 

The first Station House Chili Fest is held at Carmichael Dining Center as a way to honor local firefighters following the events of 9/11.  

2010 

Tufts Dining hosts its 8th Annual Station House Chili Fest, featuring multiple chili varieties and educational fire safety displays presented by local first responders.  

2011 

A Carmichael's Chili Fest brings heroes to lunch article highlights the event's origins and its mission of strengthening relationships between students and first responders. Organizers note that the event began in 2002 and had become an annual tradition. 

2012 

The event continues to grow, bringing together students and public safety professionals from Tufts, Medford, and Somerville. Organizers describe Chili Fest as both a celebration and an educational opportunity focused on safety awareness. https://www.tuftsdaily.com/article/2012/10/police-officers-firefighters-to-be-celebrated-over-hundreds-of-pounds-of-chili 

2013 

The 11th Annual Station House Chili Fest welcomes local first responders and reinforces the event's ongoing commitment to community partnership and appreciation. https://www.wickedlocal.com/story/medford-transcript/2013/10/21/tufts-honors-local-first-responders/39896994007/ 

2022 

The event evolves into the First Responders Chili Fest, hosted jointly by Tufts Dining and Tufts Fire Safety, continuing its mission of honoring those who serve and protect the community. 

2026 

Tufts Dining celebrates approximately 25 years of Chili Fest, marking a quarter-century tradition of gratitude, community partnership, and great chili. 

 

References 

2011 

2012 

2013