Date: Thursday, June 4th, 2026
Time: 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Get out your pots, pans, chili peppers, and secret ingredients. It’s chili cookin’ time!
The 2026 Chili Cook Off festivities will return to Pierson Park outside the back doors of Azalea Hall.
2026 Pony Express Days Theme: Coastal Roots & Western Boots!
PARTICIPANT AWARD POSSIBILITIES:
- Best Chili (Awards for Grand Prize, 1st place and 2nd place)
- Best Team Spirit
- Grand Marshal’s Choice (Blind Taste Test)
2026 Pony Express Days Chili Cook-off Official Rules
1. All chili MUST be cooked on-site during the event. Preparation and cooking must be in accordance with the requirements stated in the Temporary Food Permit booklet, issued by the Humboldt County Environmental Health Department. Review the booklet here.
Entry form and deposit must be received by May 1, 2026.
2. PARTICIPANTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR:
a. All cooking equipment (Portable propane cookers are recommended. There will be no electrical access.)
b. Pans and serving spoons
c. TABLE and linens
d. Sign or Banner with clearly displayed name, business/participant name, and/or organization
e. Pop-up canopy (cooking sites MUST have a canopy)
f. 10+ GALLONS OF CHILI with cornbread or crackers, if desired.
3. CHAMBER WILL PROVIDE:
a. County Public Health Department coordinator permit
b. Sample cups and spoons
c. Entertainment
4. DEPOSIT REQUIRED - New this year
a. To help us manage last-minute cancellations and event logistics, all chili teams are now required to provide a fully refundable $250 deposit check to enter the Chili Cook-Off.
b. The $250 check will be held (not cashed) and returned to you within two weeks after you participate in the Chili Cook-Off Contest.
c. The check must be received by May 1, 2026.
d. If you cancel after May 15, 2026, or do not participate in the event, your deposit will be forfeited, and the check will be cashed.
SET UP: Teams may set up (see chamber member for spot) beginning at 10:00 a.m. You must be ready to serve the community by 5:15 p.m.
5. Read the “Arcata Fire District Booth Requirments” and "Operating a Temporary Food Facility Booth" docsuments prior to completing this application. Direct any questions to Jesse at the McKinleyville Chamber of Commerce at ponyexpressdays@gmail.com