National Chili Week

National Chili Week, observed during the first full week of October, encourages people to cook their favorite version of the historic red stew. Chili can be made with spices and meat, with beans or other ingredients added according to the cook’s preference.

Chili’s background includes an oft-repeated legend that, in 1731, women from families who settled in San Antonio made a spicy Spanish stew similar to chili. In 1828, food historian J.C. Clopper described San Antonio families cooking chopped meat with nearly as many peppers as pieces of meat. From 1876 to 1903, chuckwagons served chili on cattle drives, helping introduce it to people farther north. In the late 1800s, “chili queens” operated mobile chili stands in public places and at special events; their trade became a tourist attraction and was featured at the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago.

The holiday’s origin is still being researched. For a Texas-style observance, try a “bowl of red,” or chili without beans. The Chili Appreciation Society International has excluded beans from its official competitions since 1999, while other cooks use beans and a wide range of creative ingredients.

How to Observe National Chili Week

Celebrate by making your favorite chili, whether you prefer a version with beans or a Texas-style “bowl of red.” Experiment with spices and ingredients, learn about chili’s history, or share how you make yours using #NationalChiliWeek.

Exclusive Content

Enjoying Checkiday? It takes a lot of support from fans like you to run a free website. For exclusive content and other perks, please consider supporting us on Patreon. Thank you!

Sponsor

This event does not currently have a sponsor. If you'd like to increase visibility for this event while gaining exposure for yourself or your brand, you can learn more here.

Something Wrong or Missing?

We would love to hear from you! Please contact us using this form.

Observation Notifications

Would you like to be notified before the next observation? Add this event directly to your calendar with this link. You may also sign up here to be told when other notifications are available!