Once again we are proud to present this years Chuckwagon Chili Challenge, and what has become one of Steamboat’s favorite Labour Day Weekend events.

It all started ten years ago when we put on a big shindig to celebrate the 100th anniversary of when Francis Marion Light opened his western-wear store here in Steamboat Springs. We were exciting to be turning a hundred years old so we celebrated with a neighborhood wide party and a great big,100-foot long, yellow and black, F.M. Light & Sons cake. The party turned out to be so much fun that we decided to do it again the next year. We did end up with a whole bunch of leftover cake, however, so we changed it to a Chuckwagon Chili Challenge instead. People tended to like the idea, and here we are ten years later!

This year’s Chili Challenge is set to be a blast. We’ve got even more chili contestants than last year, as well as more games and activities for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a list of what we’ve got planned:

• Steamboat Style Corn Hole
• A Beer Garden and Margaritas
• A Boots and Bare Legs contest
• Live music by Ragweed and Trevor G. Potter

Don’t forget, of course, unlimited chili tasting and lots and lots of cornbread and salsa! There will even be gluten free options available this year. Kids get discounted rate, so be sure to bring the whole family so that you can all vote for your favorite chili. Like the event poster says below, the fun starts at 11am on September 6th, and lasts all the way until 3pm in the afternoon. You’ll find it all happening at 7th Street and Yampa.

So come on down and have a good time. We’re excited about it, and we’re excited to see you there!