Routes, Drive Times & Road Tips to Big BendBig Bend sits deep in far West Texas. Whether you’re coming from El Paso, Midland/Odessa, San Antonio, Austin, Houston, or Dallas/Fort Worth, choose the route that matches your arrival town and the part of the park you want...
Home / Events / 59th Annual Original Terlingua International Championship Chili Cook-Off
Terlingua, Texas Event
59th Annual Original Terlingua International Championship Chili Cook-Off
The Original Terlingua International Championship Chili Cook-Off — often called the granddaddy of chili cook-offs — returns November 4–7, 2026, in Terlingua. Founded in 1967 by Frank X. Tolbert and Wick Fowler, the event grew from a challenge into a multi-day desert celebration of chili, showmanship, music, and camping.
Admission is sold as a Chilihead wristband for all four days and includes tasting opportunities, live music and entertainment, vendor access, a commemorative program, parking, and first-come camping access. Online tickets accept cards; the gate is cash only. The cook-off site is a dry camp — visitors should plan to be self-sufficient.
At a Glance
- Dates: November 4–7, 2026
- Location: 22970 FM 170, Terlingua, TX 79852
- Admission: $80 per Chilihead (per official tickets page)
- Contact: cookoff@abowlofred.com
Official listing: abowlofred.com
Explore More While You’re Here
59th Annual Original Terlingua International Championship Chili Cook-Off pairs naturally with some of the most popular destinations in the Big Bend region.
Big Bend National Park
The West Entrance of Big Bend National Park is just an eight-minute drive away, putting scenic drives, hiking, and canyon views within easy reach. From there the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, Santa Elena Canyon, and the Chisos Basin are the usual first days in the park.
Big Bend Ranch State Park & Lajitas
Big Bend Ranch State Park sits about 12 miles away, and Lajitas is roughly 12 miles down the road, both offering more ways to extend your time in the region. The River Road (FM 170) between them is the drive people plan a half-day around.
Marathon
Marathon is about 65 miles away on US-90, a historic railroad town of galleries, lodging, and a quiet main street before the park. It is the usual overnight on the drive in from the east, and a good reset after days in the desert.
When
November 4, 2026 – November 7, 2026
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