Do you make a mean pot of green chile? Here’s your chance to prove it.
The 17th Annual Patty Aragon Green Chile Classic is now accepting entries for its highly anticipated cook-off, taking place on September 27 at a new location, Yamaguchi Park. Rain or shine, the tradition continues as part of the 19th Annual Mountain Chile Cha Cha.
The competition features two divisions: Home Cooks and Professionals. Within each division, entrants may compete in one or both categories: Chile with Meat and Meatless Chile.
All entries are judged blindly, ensuring a fair contest across the board. In addition, every entrant is automatically included in the People’s Choice tasting, where festival-goers cast their votes. Winners in each division and category will take home cash prizes, trophies and — perhaps most importantly — bragging rights.
Beyond the competition itself, every entrant receives free admission to the Mountain Chile Cha Cha, along with a special thank-you gift. Volunteers will serve the chile during the event, allowing contestants to enjoy the festivities without staying by their slow cookers all day.
This year’s festival promises to be bigger than ever, with Yamaguchi Park providing more space, breathtaking mountain views and plenty of room to celebrate the chile harvest.
Admission to the festival is $10 at the gate, with children 12 and under admitted free. Festival entry includes music, entertainment and cultural celebration, but please note that tasting trays and margarita tokens are sold separately.
The Patty Aragon Green Chile Classic is more than just a cook-off — it is a cherished community event that celebrates Hispanic cultural heritage while raising funds for the Patty Aragon Memorial Fund. Proceeds support scholarships and programs for local students and sports, ensuring the event’s impact reaches far beyond a single day of fun.
Whether you are a seasoned chef, a first-time competitor or simply proud of a family recipe, this is your opportunity to showcase your green chile and be part of a beloved Pagosa Springs tradition.
Don’t wait; entries are limited. Register today at ilovegreenchile.com