A Ruidoso classic is back. The Jacks Ruidoso Chili Cookoff & Margarita Mix-Off takes over Jacks Backstage October 2–3, 2026, with two days of competition, public tasting, live entertainment, championship honors, and plenty of friendly rivalry.

Friday, October 2: Margarita Mix-Off Amateur Hour

Friday kicks off with the Margarita Mix-Off Amateur Hour, where home mixers and backyard margarita makers compete for a chance to advance to Saturday’s Pro Circuit.

The evening continues with Killer Keyz Dueling Pianos in the Patina.

Killer Keyz tickets:
https://jacksbackstage.holdmyticket.com/tickets/466786

Saturday, October 3: Chili Cookoff & Margarita Mix-Off

Saturday brings the main event, with competitors facing off in:

• Traditional Chili

• New Mexico Red Chile Sauce

• New Mexico Green Chile Sauce

• Best Booth

• People’s Choice

• Grand Champion

• Margarita Mix-Off Pro Circuit

The day also includes live music and public chili and chile tasting.

Competitor Entry Fees

Chili Cookoff

• All-In Entry: $55

• Traditional Chili: $35

• Red Chile Sauce: $15

• Green Chile Sauce: $15

• Best Booth: Free

Margarita Mix-Off

• Amateur Hour: $20

• Pro Circuit: $20

All competitors must be 21 or older.

Public Tasting

Want to help choose the People’s Choice winner? A $15 tasting pack includes 10 chili and chile tasting tokens plus one People’s Choice voting token. Additional tastings are available for 3 for $5.

Dates: Friday–Saturday, October 2–3, 2026
Location: Jacks Backstage
Address: 1056 Mechem Drive, Ruidoso, NM 88345

Cookoff & Mix-Off Registration:
https://jacksbackstage.holdmyticket.com/tickets/466879