The 40th annual New Mexico State Open Chili Championship returns to Ruidoso Downs Race Track October 5.
The public is invited to sample and participate in the “People’s Choice Award” for the best-tasting chili from approximately 40 teams of chili cooks attempting to become the state championship team that represents New Mexico in national competition in 2020.
“It takes a tremendous bowl of chili to win this competition,” New Mexico Chili Society president Brandy Reid said. “We want the public to come and help us determine the best chili. It’s been an Aspenfest tradition to hold this event on this particular weekend and we invite the public to participate.”
The public tasting is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the west end of the race track grandstand. There will be live music from the “Catfish Fry” blues band. The Ruidoso Noon Lion’s Club will be selling cups for sampling the chili for $5.