The End of Season Star Party & Chili Cookoff
The End of Season Star Party AND The “It’s Gettin’ Chili” Cook-Off✨
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!
