Date
Wednesday
Oct

October 1-31

National Chili Month

Get ready to spice up your October with National Chili Month! From classic recipes to unique variations, we've got you covered for a month of chili-filled deliciousness.

Yearly Date
October 1
Type
Month

Introduction

Get ready to fire up your taste buds and celebrate National Chili Month throughout the entire month of October! This hearty and flavorful dish has a long history, with origins tracing back to the early 1800s in San Antonio, Texas. It's also become a staple in many homes and restaurants across the United States, with endless variations and recipes to satisfy every chili lover's palate. So grab your apron and ladle, because it's time to indulge in this delicious comfort food all month long!

National Chili Month Timeline

1800s
Chili Originates in Texas
Chili con carne, known simply as chili, originates among working-class Tejana and Mexican women in Texas in the 1800s.
1893
Chili Introduced at World’s Fair
Chili was introduced to a larger audience at the 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicago, at the San Antonio Chili Stand.
1922
First Chili Powder
William Gebhardt created the first commercially available chili powder called Gebhardt’s Eagle Brand Chili Powder in 1922.
1967
Chili Declared Texas State Dish
The Texas Legislature proclaimed chili the official state dish of Texas in 1967, reaffirming its importance in Texan culture.
2004
National Chili Month Celebration
National Chili Month became recognized in October, encouraging the celebration and enjoyment of this popular dish.

How to Celebrate National Chili Month

1

Host a chili cook-off

Invite friends and family over for a chili cook-off! Have everyone bring their best chili recipe and have a friendly competition to see who makes the best chili.

2

Visit a chili festival

Check online for any chili festivals happening in your area and go check them out! You'll get to try different types of chili and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

3

Make a different type of chili each week

Challenge yourself to make a different type of chili each week during National Chili Month. Try out different recipes and experiment with unique ingredients.

4

Attend a cooking class focused on chili

Sign up for a cooking class that focuses on making different types of chili. You'll learn new techniques and recipes to add to your chili-making repertoire.

5

Have a chili-themed movie night

Gather some friends and have a chili-themed movie night! Serve up different types of chili and watch movies like "Chili Con Carne" or "The Great Chili Cook-Off" for a fun evening in.

Why We Love National Chili Month

A

It's perfect for fall weather

October is the perfect time to enjoy a warm and hearty bowl of chili. As the weather gets cooler, nothing beats the comforting feeling of a delicious bowl of chili. Plus, October is also a great time for tailgating and watching football - and chili makes the perfect game day meal!

B

Endless possibilities for customization

One of the best things about chili is that you can customize it to your liking. Like it spicy? Add in some hot peppers or cayenne powder. Want more protein? Switch up the meat or add in some beans. The options are endless, making it a versatile dish that anyone can enjoy.

C

It brings people together

Chili is often served at potlucks, family gatherings, and community events. It's the ultimate comfort food that brings people together and creates a sense of community. So whether you're making chili for your loved ones or attending a chili cook-off, National Chili Month is the perfect time to connect with others over a delicious meal.

National Chili Month Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Sep 30
Saturday
2024
Sep 30
Monday
2025
Sep 30
Tuesday
2026
Sep 30
Wednesday
2027
Sep 30
Thursday