About Pahrump Chili Cook-Off

The chili cook-off was started in 2012 by Pahrump's own Ron & Marion Frazier. They started the cook-off with the intent to help the local community and non-profit organizations within Pahrump. 

Ron approached another Pahrump local, Kelli Sater, back in 2019 and shared his vision of the cook-off with her.

His dream was to create a festival that would keep the youth involved, so that chili cooking competitions didn't lose interest with the newer generations. 

He saw the motivation and drive Ms. Sater had to help her community and asked her if she would take over the event. Kelli saw Ron's vision and knew she could keep his dream alive and grow it over the years. She graciously accepted and hosted her first cook-off in 2020, since then she has kept the festival youth and family focused as she promised Ron she would.

The festival has grown drastically over the years, what used to attract a few hundred, has now grown into the thousands!

With an added carnival, kids games/contests, and adult activities, the festival brings more than just a friendly cooking competition, it brings families and community together for a weekend of fun like the good old days!

Ron and his wife Marion both passed away since 2023 and every year we dedicate the cook-off in both of their honor. They loved people, they loved their community and they looooved chili!