FOOD. HISTORY. A REASON TO GATHER.The fourth Thursday of February
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National Chili Day: dates & celebration

The fourth Thursday in February, every year. Find the next date, add it to your calendar, and plan a gathering.

Source review: November 4, 2026 Editorial notes

When is the next National Chili Day?

The next National Chili Day is Thursday, February 25, 2027.

The observance follows the fourth Thursday of February. It is not fixed to February 25, February 26, or any other single calendar date.

112days until National Chili DayThursday, February 25, 2027

Add the annual date to your calendar

The download is an all-day calendar entry for the annual observance, not a ticket or a reservation for an organised event.

National Chili Day dates

These dates are calculated from the fourth-Thursday rule. They describe the food observance; local cook-offs and restaurant events set their own schedules.

Upcoming National Chili Day dates
YearDateDay
2027Thursday
2028Thursday
2029Thursday
2030Thursday

Date rule reference: National Day Calendar. Calendar dates are calculated from that rule.

How to celebrate National Chili Day

Make a pot worth sharing

Choose a recipe you enjoy and invite a few people to the table. Put toppings on the side, offer a milder option if useful, and let the gathering be the occasion.

Host a small tasting

Ask a few friends or colleagues to bring different styles. Label each pot with its ingredients and let people compare flavor and texture. A casual tasting does not need to follow sanctioned competition rules.

Learn the story behind the bowl

Read about San Antonio’s Chili Queens, explore chili’s place in Texas culture, or look at a historical recipe. Our history guide links to institutional and primary sources.

Explore a local cook-off

Use an organiser’s official directory, then confirm the date, location, tickets, and entry requirements directly. Our cook-off guide explains where to start.

Common date questions

Why does the calendar date change?

The rule selects a weekday within February. The fourth Thursday can fall between February 22 and February 28.

Who created National Chili Day?

We have not verified a single founder or founding year. The history of chili as a dish is much older than the modern food celebration.

Is there one official event for the day?

This guide does not organise a national event. Restaurants, communities, and individuals may arrange their own celebrations. Always confirm any event with its organiser.

Where can I find National Chili Day deals?

Check current announcements from the restaurant or brand offering them. We do not list unconfirmed future discounts or treat an expired offer as a live promotion.

For an easy-to-copy date summary and the source directory, visit our reference section.