Local NewsEvents

Great Yuba Pass Chili Cook-off to Return

Annual Yuba Pass gathering invites chili cooks, volunteer judges, and spectators for informal community fun.

Don Russell

February 18, 2026

We will admit that Paul Revere’s 1775 ride has more recognition than the several rides to the Great Yuba Pass Chili Cook-off, but Massachussetts has the advantage of a longer history.

We may, however, rectify this. A reminder: the Great Yuba Pass Chili Cook-off is Sierra County’s premier social event, now codified to be held the first Saturday of March, this year on the 7th, The event is at the sno park at Yuba Pass. You enter by showing up. There are no entry fees nor registrations. Cooks must provide their own everything. Judging begins around noonish.

Speaking of which, Judge Honcho Terry LeBlanc is looking for volunteer judges. Get in touch with him at his Loyalton home.

There are no rules. Corruption is encouraged and expected. Despite the very creative bribery, more often than not, the actual best chili often wins. We cannot explain this: there are no rules.

We will have a somewhat more complete history of this event next week. Somewhat. There’s a lot to be said of the 32 yrs of tradition, but the reportage should not be completely trusted. There are no rules.

Featured Articles

← Back to home