HOW TO REGISTER
A week before the biggest Texas celebration, we like to kick-off the fun with a good ol’ BBQ & Chili showdown. While pre-registering is not required, it is highly recommended and is said to be as easy as throwin’ some barbecue on the grill! Don’t let this heated competition stir you away, we’ve made it simple. Click the button below to join our creative arts mailing list and we’ll let you know when online registration opens. 2023_Creative-Arts-Cooking-Contest-Guide.pdf (bigtex.com)
Big Tex BBQ & Chili Challenge At-A-Glance
The Big Tex BBQ & Chili Challenge invites all pitmasters and chili cooks from across the Lone Star State to show off their culinary expertise and vie for a chance to be named “best in Texas” in the State Fair’s Barbecue, Chili, and CASI Chili Cook-Offs. With big prizes, ribbons and Texas-sized bragging rights on the line, don’t miss your chance to smoke, sizzle, and stir before the Fair opens.
THE BASICS: The Big Tex BBQ & Chili Challenge will be held on later this year – stay tuned for an exact date. Pre-registration is highly recommended but not mandatory as contestants may register on the contest day.
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