Event Registration - Crested Butte/Mt. Crested Butte Chamber of Commerce

28th Annual Chili & Beer Festival Chili Cooker Registration
9/12/2026


View Event Itinerary

Location: Red Lady Stage, 10 Crested Butte Way, PO Box 1288, Mt Crested Butte, CO 81225


Registration ends on 9/10/2026



Event Description
Chili cooks—local and visiting—are invited to compete in the 28th Annual Chili & Beer Festival at the base of Mt. Crested Butte for a full day of tasting, music, and friendly rivalry. This year brings increased prize money, reimbursement opportunities, and category winners across red, green, specialty, and vegetarian chilis. Costumes are encouraged, the competition is real, and the mountain vibe is unbeatable!
Details

GET READY TO BRING THE HEAT TO THE 28TH ANNUAL CHILI & BEER FESTIVAL

Chili cooks—both local favorites and out-of-town challengers—are invited to compete in one of Crested Butte’s most iconic and flavorful traditions. Set at the base of Mt. Crested Butte, this pre-fall celebration pairs bold chili, cold beer, and live music with a spirited (and delicious) competition.

COMPETITION DETAILS

  • Categories include Red Chili, Green Chili, Vegetarian, and Specialty Chili
  • All categories compete for overall cash prizes across the field:
    • 1st Place: $750
    • 2nd Place: $500
    • 3rd Place: $250
  • In addition, each category will feature "People's Choice" awarded with our signature chili spoons and festival aprons

REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS

  • A small registration fee is required to secure your spot in the competition
  • The fee is fully refundable to help ensure committed participation and reduce last-minute cancellations
  • We welcome both local cooks and visiting teams

INGREDIENT REIMBURSEMENT (NEW THIS YEAR)
To support our chili chefs, we are offering reimbursement for the first 20 qualifying entries preparing 10+ gallons:

  • 10 gallons: up to $150
  • 15 gallons: up to $200
  • 20 gallons: up to $250

COSTUMES ENCOURAGED
Bring your personality along with your recipe—costumes are highly encouraged and add to the fun, festive atmosphere of the day.

IMPORTANT RULES & EVENT DETAILS
Click here for full rules & regs. 

This is your chance to compete, connect, and cook your way into Chili & Beer Fest history—bring your best batch and your boldest spirit.