FAQs
What is the Chili & BBQ Cook-off?
It all started with a Chili Cook-Off.
Formed in 1985 a group of Muskogee businessmen had a successful Chili Cook-Off the year before and decided they needed to find a nonprofit organization that symbolized what they stood for and could benefit the community.
They found that the National Exchange Club’s national project of child abuse prevention and its overall programs of service was exactly the kind of club they wanted to be associated with. So, in March of 1985, they formed the Muskogee Chapter and had the first-ever Exchange Club of Muskogee Chili Cook-Off! 40 years later, we’re still going strong with the Chili & BBQ Cook-Off and we look forward to continuing growing this important event each year and announcing new things to come!
Since then our organization has added in new events, like the 2020 Okie Jeep Jam, and has given proceeds upwards of $1,500,000.00 to benefactors such as CASA, Kids’ Space, Education Foundation of Muskogee, Muskogee County Council of Youth Services, our own charity Exchange Club of Muskogee Shoe and Coat Fund, as well as many other deserving charities in 40 years.
Where is the Chili & BBQ Cook-off?
The Chili and BBQ Cook-Off is located on the east runway at Hatbox (600 S. 40th St.)
Where does the money go?
The money goes directly to our local children’s charities and organizations that assist in our mission to prevent child abuse and provide youth programs as well as our charity “The Muskogee Exchange Club Shoe and Coat Fund” where we work behind the scenes with our local school counselors to provide children in desperate need; shoes and coats during the winter months.
Where do I buy tickets?
At the event! Admission prices are as follows:
$10 for adults
$5 for ages 12-4
Free for ages 3 and under
Is there other food besides chili available at the event?
We have all the BBQ meat and beans you can handle too! Some of our cooks get so creative they bring some wild concoctions! You have to see it to believe it!
What time can we start tasting?
Gates open at 11 a.m. and Cook Teams will be ready to serve by 11:30 a.m.
Are there places to sit?
Yes! Our Main Stage/Beer Garden will have seating with live music, beer, and plenty of shade. Since we know the runway is long, we’re adding in more seating throughout the event so you can stop, sit & chow down. Some cook teams provide additional seating for the public, and walking to different cook booths and eating samples while waiting in line is the name of the game. It’s like a nonstop buffet line all day long!
Are animals allowed?
Due to the concerns of the general public, we have posted that no animals are allowed. Service animals are an exception.
Where should I park?
There is TONS of parking at Hatbox, so it’s first come, first serve. You’ll make your way from the parking lot to the east runway for a fun-filled day! Need help getting to the front gate? We’re working on a shuttle service! More info to come.
Is there a parking fee?
Nope! Parking is FREE!
Are there any activities for kids?
More info is coming soon!
Will the event be rescheduled due to rain?
No, the show will go on even if it rains.
Do I have to pre-register or can I show up and register on-site?
Registration will be open soon and we highly suggest everyone who participates as a cook team pre-register so that our Site Coordinator can reserve you a spot and our volunteers can have everything ready before the cook’s meeting that Saturday morning. With that said, we understand when a last-minute change needs to happen and we try to be accommodating.
Also, registering early will save you some money (and will give you some added perks)! Here is tentatively when & how the prices will increase until the event date:
$25 per food category (TBD - March 14)
$40 per food category (March 15 - April 11)
$50 per food category (Day of - April 12/13)
The first 30 Cook Teams registered will receive 2 complimentary Cooks Team t-shirts (but of course, you can purchase more while registering if necessary).
When can I register?
Registration will be open soon!
Do you accept credit cards/checks at the event?
Yes!
Can I bring my food and beverages?
We ask that if you bring your food and beverages you and your direct cook team be the only consumers. Giving those provisions to anyone else is a conflict of interest and is hurtful to our cause.
Will you be selling merchandise before the event?
Due to the current product demand, we will only have merchandise available for sale during the event.
Where can I get updates about the event?
You can follow us on our social media accounts (found below) or here on our website!
Where should I stay if I’m coming from out of town?
There are tons of hotels in Muskogee that you can choose from. No matter what, make plans to stay local in Muskogee, Oklahoma, U.S.A!