If one thing’s for sure, Texans pride themselves on their homemade BBQ and Chili. As you know, the State Fair of Texas celebrates all things Texans, so we like to kick off the 24-day run of Fair with the ultimate Texas showdown – the Big Tex BBQ & Chili Challenge.
While this is no ordinary contest, we do pride ourselves on enjoying a day of fair-ly big fun and you having the chance to be named “Best in Texas.” Whether you’re in it for the experience, hoping to call yourself a State Fair ribbon-winner, or ready to gain those last few CASI Chili points, this contest is BIG fun for all!
1. Let’s cover the basics
The Big Tex BBQ & Chili Challenge is held on Saturday, September 21, 2019. Pre-registration is highly recommended but not mandatory as contestants may register on the contest day. Gates open at 6 a.m., and all food must be cooked onsite and then turned in by the designated time, which can be found in the Creative Arts Handbook.
2. Choose your contest
The State Fair offers three categories that each have various classes listed below. For more information about the contests rules and guidelines, check out our Creative Arts Handbook.
- CASI Chili Challenge
CASI Chili
CASI Chili Show - Big Tex BBQ Challenge
BBQ Chicken
BBQ Pork Spare Ribs
BBQ Ribeye Steak - Big Tex “No Rules” Chili Challenge
“No Rules” Chili
3. Download the Creative Arts Handbook
Good news! The handbook is available earlier than ever before. Download yours online and get all the information you may need in order to compete in a Creative Arts contest. Be sure to check out all the Arts & Crafts (pre-Fair) contests and Cooking Contests (during-Fair). You’ll never know how many State Fair ribbons you could win until you try!
For more information on Creative Arts Contests or blogs on how to enter,
visit our Creative Arts 101 page or sign-up for our Creative Texans Newsletter.