Routes, Drive Times & Road Tips to Big BendBig Bend sits deep in far West Texas. Whether you’re coming from El Paso, Midland/Odessa, San Antonio, Austin, Houston, or Dallas/Fort Worth, choose the route that matches your arrival town and the part of the park you want...
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Terlingua, Texas Event
59th Annual CASI Terlingua International Chili Championship
The Chili Appreciation Society International (CASI) hosts the 59th Annual Terlingua International Chili Championship at Rancho CASI de los Chisos, November 3–7, 2026. CASI was the original host of the 1967 Terlingua Chili Championship and continues the annual tradition on the north side of Highway 170 between Study Butte and Lajitas.
Competition events Tuesday through Friday are open to the public with a gate wristband; Saturday is the invitational chili championship based on the CASI point system. The week includes eight world-class food contests, bands, karaoke, and dry camping (no hookups) included with the ticket. Friday is CASI Scholarship Fund Raising Day (salsa, hot wings, beans).
At a Glance
- Dates: November 3–7, 2026 (championship Saturday, November 7)
- Location: Rancho CASI de los Chisos, 80 Mariposa Mine Road / Highway 170, Terlingua, TX 79852
- Tickets: Advance gate sales via CASI; also listed on Eventbrite — confirm current price at purchase
Official listing: casichili.net TICC
Explore More While You’re Here
59th Annual CASI Terlingua International Chili Championship pairs naturally with some of the most popular destinations in the Big Bend region.
Big Bend National Park
The West Entrance of Big Bend National Park is about 9 miles away, putting scenic drives, hiking, and canyon views within easy reach. From there the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, Santa Elena Canyon, and the Chisos Basin are the usual first days in the park.
Terlingua Ghost Town
The historic Terlingua Ghost Town is just a seven-minute drive away, with nearby dining and sightseeing that bring the area’s mining history to life. The old porches, the cemetery on the hill, and the nightly gathering at the Starlight Theatre are the usual finish to a Big Bend day.
Big Bend Ranch State Park & Lajitas
Big Bend Ranch State Park sits about 8 miles away, and Lajitas is roughly 7 miles down the road, both offering more ways to extend your time in the region. The River Road (FM 170) between them is the drive people plan a half-day around.
When
November 3, 2026 – November 7, 2026
VISIT BIG BEND