The Terlingua Chili Cook Off is back, and it’s promising to be a sizzling experience you won’t want to miss. Mark your calendars for November 1st to 4th, 2023, and get ready to indulge in a chili extravaganza that’s as hot as the Texan sun.
Tickets: A Pass to Chili Paradise
For just $53 per person, you can secure your ticket to this chili lover’s dream come true. But it’s not just about the chili; your ticket includes:
- Camping for the entire weekend through Sunday, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the Terlingua experience.
- Live music for four nights straight with ten incredible bands, ensuring that the chili party never stops.
- The chance to interact with over forty unique vendors from across the nation, giving you the opportunity to discover hidden treasures and meet Texas’ finest authors and artists.
- The knowledge that your participation supports a good cause, as proceeds from this event go towards fighting ALS and supporting local charities.
Location: Where the Chili Magic Happens
Head to 22970 FM 170, Terlingua, TX 79852, and you’ll find yourself in the heart of chili country. This is where the magic of the Terlingua Chili Cook Off unfolds, where flavor reigns supreme, and chili enthusiasts gather to celebrate their love for this iconic dish.
A Taste of History
The Terlingua Chili Cook Off isn’t just any cook-off; it’s the original and the granddaddy of all chili competitions worldwide. The very first cook-off, held in 1967, was a two-man showdown between a New Yorker, H. Allen Smith, and Texas legend Wick Fowler. It was a battle to determine who truly knew more about chili – Texans or New Yorkers. The contest ended in a draw, and little did they know they were laying the foundation for a chili tradition that would span over half a century.
Chili Cooks, Unite!
To qualify for the Terlingua November championship, chili cooks from all over participate in their local area sanctioned events, earning points towards qualification. Once they meet or exceed the required points, they receive the coveted invitation to participate in the annual Terlingua championship.
And here’s the heartwarming part: all Tolbert sanctioned cook-offs, including the Terlingua Cook Off, donate proceeds to local charities such as Terlingua Schools and the Terlingua Fire and EMS. In honor of event co-founder Wick Fowler, the primary beneficiary of Behind the Store’s Cook Off is the ALS Association of Texas, working to combat Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
A Musical Feast
While you’re savoring chili creations, don’t forget to enjoy some fantastic live music. Here’s a taste of the lineup for this year:
- Wednesday, November 1st: The Moonshiners, Thomas Michael Riley, Sunny Sweeney
- Thursday, November 2nd: The Scott Walker Band, Ellis Bullard, Gary P. Nunn
- Friday, November 3rd: Nathan Colt Young, Mike and the Moonpies
- Saturday, November 4th: Nik Parr and the Selfless Lovers, Los Pinche Gringos
It’s a chili-infused musical journey that’ll keep you grooving all weekend long.
Get Your Tickets and Join the Chili Fiesta
Don’t miss out on the 2023 Terlingua Chili Cook Off. Get your tickets now at abowlofred.com/tickets, and prepare your taste buds for a chili adventure like no other. Remember, consumption of too much chili may result in a good time – but isn’t that what you’re here for?

I have a food trailer and would love to set up as a vendor . I live in Marathon, Tx please contact me at 432-386-7523. I am certified have my food handler certificate and my trailer is equipped with hot water, 3-compartment sinks, fridges and freezer. Thank you .
Please email me a reply back. Thank you