calling all chili champs

Think your chili has what it takes to win over the masses—or the judges? Whether you're a seasoned chef or a passionate home cook, we invite you to join the 28th Annual Crested Butte Chili & Beer Festival as a competitor in our legendary chili cook-off!

what you'll need to bring

To ensure a successful event (and happy tasters), each chili competitor must prepare a minimum of 5 gallons of chili. Bigger batches = bigger rewards!

ingredient reimbursement

💸 The first 20 chili cookers to sign up and commit to 10 or more gallons will be eligible for cash reimbursement at the event. To qualify, simply send in your ingredient list and receipts prior to the festival.


Reimbursement tiers:

- 10+ gallons = up to $150

- 15+ gallons = up to $200

- 20+ gallons = up to $250

we'll provide

Serving dishes, napkins, paper towels, and 3oz ladles for portion control. 🧾

We’ll also print and display your ingredient list at your booth to help with food sensitivities and allergies.

RESERVE YOUR SPOT

🎉 This year there is a fully refundable entry fee of $25 to reserve your spot. Cancellations after August 28th will incur a forfeiture of $25 registration fee.

Categories & Cash Prizes

 🏆 Judging is blind taste-tested, and categories include:

  • Red
  • Green
  • Specialty (get creative!)
  • Vegetarian
  • Restaurant/Professional
  • People’s Choice

Scoring is based on both taste and presentation, rewarding well-rounded entries that deliver on flavor and creativity.


All 10 gallon submissions will be eligible for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place cash prizes. Trophies will be awarded to the winner in each category.

Overall Cash Prizes (highest total points):

  • 1st place- $500
  • 2nd place - $350
  • 3rd place - $250
  • People's Choice: $150


ALL submissions of 5 gallons or more will be eligible for People's Choice Award of a cash prize of $150.


Spaces are limited—sign up now and bring the heat!

Questions? We're happy to help you prep for a successful (and spicy) showing! Reach out to us at director@cbchamber.com or by calling us at 970.349.6438.