Join us for an evening of hot competition and cool stargazing! Calling all chili enthusiasts and night-sky dreamers to our Chili Cook-Off and Stargazing event!

If you’ve got a chili recipe that can pack a punch, bring your best Traditional (no beans) or Homestyle (with beans) chili and enter the competition. Not a chef? No problem! Come hungry, savor a variety of chilies, and cast your vote as a People’s Choice judge. White/blond/chicken chilies (and side dishes) are welcome to be served, but only red chilies will face off in the official contest. And don’t hold back on those toppings – all the fixings are welcome!

Trophies and the ultimate chili bragging rights await the top 3 winners!

Once you’ve voted on your favorite chili, head outside and our observatory volunteers will take you on a cosmic journey, showcasing the wonders of the night sky through our telescopes (weather permitting). This will be our final big event of the year, and we’re closing it out with a big bang! Dress warm, it’s chilly out there.

Come for the chili, stay for the stars – we can’t wait to share this unforgettable evening with you.

For our Non-Competitors / Tasting Judges:

• Anyone can judge (and compete) including the general public and our observatory volunteers.

• Tasting and judging will take place between 6:30 and 7:30pm.

• Results will be announced between 7:45 and 8:00pm.

• Iced Tea will be available. Feel free to bring your own drinks.

• Observing opportunities will be between 7:00 and 10:00pm. Be sure to bundle up; It may be cold.

For Our Chili Competitors:

• Primary cooking must be done at home, although “last minute ingredients” can be added during your set-up. Table space with electrical outlets will be provided for your crock pot, cast-iron pot with hot plate, or other serving container.

• Only red chilies (traditional Texas and home style) will be judged. White chilies are welcome to add variety but are not part of the competition.

• Set-up will be between 5:30 and 6:30pm. Service begins at 6:30. You can set up after 6:30, but you may miss out on valuable votes.

• Anyone can compete (and judge) including the general public and our observatory volunteers.

• Trophy winners will be announced between 7:45 and 8:00pm

• Please bring your own chili serving ladle and other serving utensils if your optional topings need them. Service bowls, spoons, and napkins will be provided for our tasters.

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– This is a FREE event, but donations are appreciated
– No Registration
– Open to Everyone – Great for the Entire Family!
– Arrive Anytime Between the Times Given
– Stay for the Entire Event or As Long As You Want
– No Park Permit Required
– No Telescope Needed – But you are welcome to bring your own equipment!